How to stay safe cycling during COVID-19?

21 May 2020

Updated 12th April 2021

The UK government have encouraged people to cycle to work, in order to avoid public transport, if it’s not possible for them to work from home during the current Covid-19 pandemic. Many people are also taking up cycling as part of their daily exercise.

Whilst cycling is great for improving your health and fitness, it is important to remain safe on the roads and to maintain social distancing.

What is the Government advice on exercising outdoors?

As of 12^th April 2021, the Government advice for exercising outdoors in England is as follows:

You can do unlimited exercise outdoors but there are limits on the number of people you can exercise with. It can be either:

• on your own
• in a group of up to 6 people
• in a larger group of any size from up to 2 households (and their support bubbles, if eligible)

You can also take part in formally organised outdoor sports or licensed physical activity with any number of people. This must be organised by a business, charity or public body and the organiser must take the required precautions, including the completion of a risk assessment. You should avoid contact in training and, for some sports, avoid contact in all activities.

How can I cycle to work safely?

When cycling to work you need to follow the guidelines set out in the Highway Code. We have set out our cycling to work tips for keeping you safe on the road:

• Wear cycling safety gear such as a helmet and reflective clothing.
• Be seen and heard.
• Plan your route and be aware of the roads.
• Make sure your bike is in good working order.
• Make sure you have lights fitted to your bike if cycling late at night or very early in the morning. It is the law to have a red rear light and a white front light when cycling after dusk and before dawn. Read out guide on staying safe whilst cycling at night for more information.
• Wear reflective clothing if travelling in the dark.
• Use appropriate signalling when turning left or right or changing road position.
• If you’re feeling tired or unsafe, dismount.
• If you need to carry with you equipment, such as a laptop, and change of clothes, use the appropriate luggage. A backpack may suffice, but if you need to carry heavy items, a pannier rack may relieve stress on your back.

How can I stay safe whilst cycling recreationally?

When cycling recreationally, you should follow all of the above advice. Whilst the government advice permits you to cycle in any outdoor public place, you should consider how busy certain places may be before setting off on your journey. It may be difficult to stick to social distancing guidelines when there are a lot of cyclists in one area.

How can I cycle safely as a beginner?

If you’re taking up cycling for the first time or haven’t rode a bike for many years, follow our road cycling tips for beginners:

• Practice in a safe environment away from traffic such as in your local park.
• Practice cycling one handed so that you can safely signal when turning left and right.
• Wear a helmet.
• Familiarise yourself with and follow the Highway Code.
• Be alert and plan your route.
• Maintain social distancing during the Covid-19 outbreak.

What should I do if I’ve been involved in a cycling accident?

If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident, your first priority should be to attend to your injuries. If the accident was caused due to the negligence of another road user, you could be entitled to make a claim.

Contract True Solicitors on 0344 854 7000 or submit your details below and we’ll call you back to discuss your claim. We have over 25 years’ experience handling road traffic accident claims, obtaining compensation and rehabilitation to get our clients back on the road as soon as possible.

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