Coronavirus: How to Stay Safe While Cycling on the Road

Cycling has increased in popularity hugely since the government’s lockdown as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

With people forced to stay at home and social distance, one of the few reasons for being allowed to leave your home is to exercise, with cycling being one of those options. So, as a wave of new cyclists take to the road, it is important to know the rules and regulations which cyclists must abide by.

How is the country affected by COVID-19?

Currently the UK, and a large proportion of the World, is in lockdown as a result of a pandemic that first began in the city of Wuhan, in the Hubei province of China. Quickly turning into a human-to-human transmission virus, the flu-based infection attacks the respiratory system of people leading to a dry cough, fever, breathing difficulties and, in severe cases, death.

As a result of the contagious nature of the disease, countries across the World have taken measures to prevent further spread by ordering their populations to stay at home unless it is absolutely necessary to leave. This lockdown scenario has been going on for weeks, with only a handful of countries looking to ease restrictions.

Thousands have died, with hundreds of thousands of confirmed Coronavirus cases across the globe.

What are the rules about exercising during lockdown?

The UK government has delivered a set of rules which must be adhered to by the general public. They involve limiting the amount of social contact with those outside of the household, to the extent where people are only allowed away from their home for an essential shopping trip – for food or medicine – and to exercise once a day, unless classed as a key worker in which case they can travel to and from work.

That exercise can take the form of a walk, jog or cycle, with the latter being a favoured choice among many as highlighted by a sharp increase in sales of bikes, following the announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, to levels often recorded in the run-up to Christmas.

Rules of cycling on the road

The current pandemic is providing inexperienced riders the time to get on their bikes too. Here are some rules of the road which need to be adhered to when out on a bike.

What should I wear when cycling?

The Highway Code encourages use of a helmet, a reflective light on the front and back of the bicycle, as well as some form of light-coloured clothing to make the rider more visible in poor visibility conditions, or at night.

Where you can and cannot ride

Although not compulsory, it is recommended to use cycle lanes where possible and when they are coming to an end, make sure to signal your intention clearly to other road users. Avoid riding on pavements and always adhere to traffic signs and signals as cyclists must do this when sharing the roads with vehicle drivers.

FAQs

Can I ride my bike?

Yes, as part of the government’s stringent lockdown measures, you are allowed to conduct one session of exercise, as long as social distancing is maintained. This includes a walk, jog, run or cycle within your local area.

Where can I ride my bike?

You are advised to conduct your bike ride, as per government guidelines, within your local area and not use your car to get to where you wish to start your bike ride.

What should I wear?

When out cycling, the Highway Code requires you to wear a helmet and an element of light-coloured clothing to make you more visible. Some reflective parts to your bike are required at night.

What if I am involved in an accident while on my bike?

If you have been in an accident which wasn’t your fault while you were on your bike, you should contact Winns. We can help with your claim, offering expert advice and guidance throughout the process while helping you with a personal injury claim and arranging any medical treatment you may need.

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