Transport for LondonGet cycling / Cycle safety
Tips for safer cycling
Be alert
- Be aware that there are blind spots all around large vehicles. It's often safer to hang back
- Pay attention to what's going on around you and what other road users might do
- Make eye contact with drivers so you are sure they have seen you
- Wear bright clothing in the day and reflective clothing or accessories at night
- Use lights after dark - white at front and red at rear. You may be fined £30 if you don't have them
- Use appropriate hand signals when making a left or right turn
- Consider wearing a helmet
- Ride assertively, away from the gutter. If the road's too narrow for vehicles to pass you safely, it may be safer to ride in the middle of the lane to prevent dangerous overtaking
- Ride in a straight line past parked cars, rather than dodge between them, and allow at least a full door's width between you in case a car door opens suddenly
- Wait in front of other vehicles at traffic lights by using the advanced stop line for cyclists, if there is one
- Don't ride through red traffic lights. You may be fined £30
- Free or subsidised cycle training including advanced commuter skills are available for adults and children in most London boroughs.
Cycling in colder weather
Cycling in winter can be as easy and safe as it is in the summer months.
- Invest in a lightweight waterproof jacket and non-slip gloves - they'll keep you warm and dry in rain, sleet or snow
- Consider mudguards, waterproof trousers and shoe covers as more water can come up off a wet road than down from the sky
- Wear breathable layers that you can take off and put on as the weather changes
- Regularly clean and oil your bike chain to keep your bike running smoothly and remember to check your brakes and tyres
- Carry a spare inner tube, pump and tyre levers (in case you have a puncture) and make sure you know how to use them
Why not try a cycle training session in the evening so you can get used to riding in the dark?
