Safety tips for drivers and cyclists

Every year in this country around 19,000 cyclists are killed or injured in reported road accidents. In the last 6 years the number of cycling deaths has fluctuated each year between 100-120.

THINK safety tips

THINK! is working in partnership with Transport for London (TfL) to extend TFL’s ‘Tips’ campaign to other cities in the UK.

The campaign consists of a series of tips, developed to educate and remind drivers and cyclists about the correct way to drive and ride, and reduce the number of collisions on the road.

THINK! advice for when you’re driving

• Look out for cyclists, especially when turning – make eye contact if possible so they know you’ve seen them
• Use your indicators – signal your intentions so that cyclists can react
• Give cyclists plenty of space when over taking them, leaving as much room as you would give a car. If there isn’t sufficient space to pass, hold back. Remember that cyclists may need to manoeuvre suddenly if the road is poor, it’s windy or if a car door is opened
• Always check for cyclists when you open your car door
• Advanced stop lines allow cyclists to get to the front and increase their visibility. You must stop at the first white line reached if the lights are amber or red and allow cyclists time and space to move off when the green signal shows
• Follow the Highway Code including ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights

THINK! advice for when you’re cycling

• Ride positively, decisively and well clear of the kerb – look and signal to show drivers what you plan to do and make eye contact where possible so you know drivers have seen you
• Avoid riding up the inside of large vehicles, like lorries or buses, where you might not be seen
• Always use lights after dark or when visibility is poor
• Wearing light coloured or reflective clothing during the day and reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark increases your visibility
• Follow the Highway Code including observing ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights
• THINK! recommends wearing a correctly fitted cycle helmet, which is securely fastened and conforms to current regulations