Cycles

There are certain rules that apply to cyclists in addition to the standard rules of road use for all vehicles. Most offences result in the minimum of a £50 fine.

As a cyclist, you must:

obey all road markings, traffic signs and traffic signals
always use bike lights when travelling in the dark or in conditions of reduced visibility
not cycle on footpaths or in pedestrian areas
not carry any additional passengers on the bicycle unless it has been adapted to do so e.g. tandem bicycles or child seats
not ride your bicycle in an inconsiderate or careless way
not ride a bicycle when you are unfit to control it, through the consumption of alcohol or drugs. It is an offence to be in charge of a bicycle when drunk.

Advanced Stop Lines

Some signal-controlled junctions have Advanced Stop Lines providing an area for cyclists to wait in front of traffic when the traffic lights are red. Cyclists are more easily visible to motorists here, and have space to move off when the lights turn green.

Do not cross the second stop line while the traffic signal is red. Contravening a traffic signal is against the law, and could result in a £50 fine.

Cycling Safety & Security Tips

Ensure your bike is in good working order and safe to ride
Use designated cycle paths where available
Give room whilst passing parked cars
Stay back from large vehicles such as heavy goods vehicles. Do not cycle up their left hand side as they might not be able to see you
Stay safe by wearing bright clothes during the day and reflective clothing/accessories at night
For your own protection wear a cycle helmet (though this is not a legal requirement)
Invest in a good quality lock for your bicycle to no less than CEN security grade 3-4; D locks are the most effective and a worthwhile investment
Use a lock to secure the bike-stand, wheel rim and frame together making it more difficult for a thief to steal it
Never leave your bike unlocked in a public place
Find a suitable location to leave and secure your bike; dark alleys, drain-pipes and posts should not be used
Get your bike security marked by your local Safer Neighbourhood Team making it readily identifiable should it be recovered
Consider registering your bike using a third party service to further protect it such as Bike Register or Immobilise
Bikes kept in garages and sheds in particular should be properly secured; alternatively if there is room, inside the home is the most secure location to store your bike.