Most cycling accidents can be avoided with a few good habits. Safe riding is about being visible, predictable and alert. Whether you ride on quiet paths or busy streets, these rules apply every time you get on the bike.
The rules of the road
- Follow local traffic laws and signals; rules differ between countries, so check yours
- Ride with the traffic on the side your country requires
- Stop at red lights and stop signs
- Use a bell or voice to warn pedestrians on shared paths
- Never ride with headphones at a volume that blocks out traffic noise, or use your phone while riding
Be visible
- Use front and rear lights in the dark and in poor weather; many riders use them by day too
- Wear bright colours during the day and reflective items at night
- Add reflectors to your wheels and pedals
- Choose a route with good street lighting when possible
Our guide to lights and locks explains what to buy.
Be predictable
Drivers cannot read your mind. Ride in a straight line, signal before you turn or change lane, and avoid sudden swerves. Look over your shoulder before moving out, and make eye contact with drivers at junctions to confirm they have seen you. Hand signals vary by country, so learn the ones used where you live.
Know the danger spots
| Hazard | How to stay safe |
|---|---|
| Parked car doors | Ride at least one door’s width away from parked cars |
| Junctions and roundabouts | Slow down, look both ways and ride where drivers can see you |
| Large trucks and buses | Stay out of their blind spots; never pass on the inside of a turning truck |
| Wet roads and painted lines | Brake earlier and gently; avoid sudden steering on slippery surfaces |
| Potholes and drain covers | Scan ahead and steer around them early, with a safe check behind you |
If you cannot make eye contact with a driver at a junction, assume they have not seen you and be ready to stop.
Wear a helmet and check your bike
A correctly fitted helmet is the best protection against head injury. Check your tyres, brakes and chain before every ride, using the ABC check from our maintenance checklist.
Riding in groups
- Ride in a predictable line and keep a safe gap
- Call out hazards such as holes, glass or stopped traffic
- Do not overlap wheels with the rider in front
- Ride two abreast only when it is safe and legal
Final thoughts
Safe cycling comes from habits, not luck. Practise these rules until they are automatic, and read our guide to riding in traffic and at night for more advanced advice.
This guide is for general information only. Bikes, prices and local rules differ, so check your bike manual and local regulations, and see a qualified mechanic for safety-critical repairs. If you have a health concern, speak to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
