COVID-19: Keeping safe as a cyclist on the roads during lockdown
As the sunny weather continues during lockdown, more and more of us are taking to the roads on two wheels. Cycling is a great way to exercise within the Government’s guidelines, either alone or with other members of your household.
However, with reports of an increase in cycling accidents and fatalities on the roads since lockdown was introduced*, it’s more important than ever that new (and seasoned) cyclists are reminded to take safety precautions:
- Wear a helmet and make sure other members of your household are wearing one too
- Consider using lights and wearing reflective garments. Avoid wearing dark clothing if possible, so that you’re visible
- Don’t cycle with headphones – you need to be able to hear any traffic around you
- Take food and water with you so that you can limit social contact
- Maintain your bike including checking the tyres are in good condition and pumped with air
- Use cycle lanes and tracks where possible, taking care of pedestrians on shared paths
- If you have to cycle on the roads, be wary of other road users. The quieter roads are encouraging some drivers to ignore speed limits. Make sure you ride around 1m from the kerb or verge
- Remember the Highway Code and signal clearly where appropriate, making eye contact with other road users before manoeuvring. Traffic lights apply to cyclists too, so you must obey them
- Consider taking out insurance if you’re cycling regularly – a minimum of third party insurance is advisable
- Drivers should leave a gap of at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists, horse riders and other pedestrians
If the unthinkable should happen, we’re here to help. Our personal injury team can help you make a claim for injuries sustained from cycling accidents – please call 0113 232 1030 or email personal.injury@emsleys.co.uk.