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Safe cycling

Cycling safelyFollow these tips to help you and your child stay safe when cycling:

  • Make sure your child's bike fits and that all your bikes are roadworthy
  • wearing a helmet is particularly recommended for young children
  • if you're on the road with children, take up a position behind them. If there are two adults in your group, it's a good idea to have one at the back and one in front of the children
  • set a good example, follow the highway code and teach children road safety and awareness. 

In particular:

  • Don't jump red lights or cycle on the pavement unless it's a designated cycle path
  • signal clearly at all times
  • ride in a position where you can see and be seen
  • make eye contact with other road users, especially at junctions, then you know they've seen you
  • when riding at night a working white front light and red back light, plus a red rear reflector are required - it's the law!

If you're cycling on paths shared by walkers, wheelchair users and horse riders:

  • Don't go too fast - it can intimidate others
  • use your bell to let others know you are approaching, but don't assume they can hear or see you
  • give way to others and always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary
  • keep left or on your side of any dividing line
  • be careful at junctions, bends or entrances.

Cycle training is available for children and adults to help develop skills and increase confidence. Phone the National Cycle Training Helpline on 0844 736 8460/8461. Or find out if you child's school offers Bikeability or Bike It. If your school doesn't have either, pester them!

 

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