Cycling is a great way to stay fit and active whilst combating the number of emissions that car travel can produce, but do the benefits outweigh the accidents?
Personal injury claim specialists, National Accident Helpline looked into this further with their study of 1,000 cyclists.
The danger of accidents is real
With over ¾ of cycling accidents happening whilst on rural roads, it’s prevalent that this could be due to a lack of knowledge of the Highway Code.
Almost half of those surveyed (46%) have been involved in a bicycle accident on UK roads, with female cyclists being more likely to have been involved in an accident than males.
More than one in five cyclists have been involved in an accident that required medical attention (23%), and the most common form of accident was a collision with a car (17%).
A further 13% collided with a fellow cyclist.
A survey conducted by the National Accident Helpline asking cyclists how well they knew the Highway Code showed that over half of those surveyed didn’t know the correct answers.
Most of these people were aged 18-24.
Almost half of those surveyed (46%) have been involved in a bicycle accident on UK roads, with female cyclists being more likely to have been involved in an accident than males.
The most common question that was answered wrong was that the use of cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes, and toucan crossings are not compulsory for cyclists.
This could show that the Highway Code isn’t as well versed with younger people and there might need to be some more information or training readily provided to young riders.
How can you stay safe whilst cycling?
There are some simple steps that can be followed to help remain safe whilst cycling on Britain’s roads.
Firstly, before you head out on your bike, be sure to check the tyre tread, and test that brakes and lights are all in full working order.
Wear something visible and sensible so that you can be easily seen by other drivers and cyclists, and always wear your helmet.
Make sure that you have good road positioning and that you’re not too close to the cars in front, besides, or behind of you.
Don’t position your bike too close to the kerb as this could cause you to slip over drain covers and potholes or debris by the roadside.
Be certain that you have a strong road awareness and keep building on your skills. Always remain alert of your surroundings.
This will help you to anticipate any swift movements from the cars and other vehicles around you.
Keep an eye out for car doors opening and never undertake a lorry as you could be in their blindside.
If you are turning or breaking, make your intentions clear to those around you and be sure to signal in plenty of time.
Keep your hands always hovering over your breaks so that you can stop in emergency situations.
What to do if you experience an accident
If you or someone you are with becomes involved in a bike accident, try to get them out of danger where possible and out of the road from any other oncoming traffic.
Call for help from emergency services when needed and make sure you take the details from the other driver or rider in the event of a collision.
You may also be entitled to a personal injury claim if you have cyclist cover.