Cycle Safety
Get around Kingston on a bike. It's fun, convenient and good for both your health and the environment!
Cycle Safety
Cycling is a great way of getting around, but as you'll be out on the roads with other traffic you should think seriously about safety. In 2004, over 3,500 teen cyclists aged 11-16 were killed or injured on Britain's roads.
Here are some basic tips to ride safely:
- Get trained and keep in control
Make sure that you are adequately trained in riding a bike proficiently and know the rules of the road. There are training courses you can take in Kingston - see the Cycling in Kingston pages (link at the bottom of the page). - Wear a helmet
Protect your head - see below for more info. - Be seen and heard
Make yourself visible to other road users by wearing high visibility clothing which is flourescent in daylight and reflective in the dark. Ensure that your bicycle has reflectors and lights. - Check your bike
Before you ride, spend a couple of seconds checking out your bike to make sure that it's roadworthy, well maintained and safe to ride. - Be alert and plan your route
Do you know where there are cycle lanes and special routes for bikes? Stay alert while riding - don't listen to music or do anything that distracts you from keeping full concentration on the road. - Stay legal
Know the rules and the law - for example, don't ride on pavements unless there are signs saying you are allowed to do so.
Choose a bike that's right for you - the right height and up to safety standards.
Wear a helmet
If you're involved in a cycling accident, you'll be glad you wore a helmet to protect your head and face. Most cycle injuries are suffered by teenagers and young adults - many of them don't wear helmets because they think they look uncool.
But hitting your head without wearing a helmet is also uncool. Helmets help to reduce the number of injuries and seriousness of those injuries.
For effective protection, make sure you choose the right helmet - it should be a snug fit and be worn properly as per instructions. It should also have a recognised safety standard certification.
For more information
Visit the sites below for more advice and safety tips.
Related External Links:
- Cycling in Kingston
Information about cycling in the Royal Borough of Kingston with advice and safety tips. - CycleSense
THINK! Cycle safety with information and advice on keeping safe while cycling.