Cycle Accidents

It is well known how dangerous the roads can be for cyclists. Every year, approximately 16, 000 people in the UK are killed or injured whilst cycling in traffic. Even off road, cycling is full of hazards, even in seemingly safe places such as parks, or even indoors. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents estimates that off-road cycle accidents, although not usually life-threatening, could total as many as 150, 000 per year. Many Cyclists are asking what they can do to help protect themselves and their loved ones. Whilst the following tips from Cycle Safety experts don't guarantee protection, observing them will give cyclists a better chance of staying safe.

The biggest cause of death to cyclists is through head injury. Wearing a helmet dramatically reduces these chances. A cyclist without a helmet is up to eight times more likely to die in a collision than a cyclist who is wearing one. Be careful, though, when choosing a helmet. There have been many stories in the news about people dying in cycle accidents because they bought poorly manufactured helmets. These did not meet safety standards and didn't provide any real protection to the cyclist, with fatal consequences. All helmets sold in the UK should meet national safety standards, and be clearly labelled with '9BS 6863' or BS EN '1078' to prove that they are correctly made. Avoid buying second hand helmets to ensure the quality of the product.

For any cyclist planning to drive in conditions other than the perfect summer's day, buying visibility equipment is essential. This allows you to see the road, and to be seen by other drivers. It is illegal to cycle at night without a white front light, a red back light and a red reflector on the rear of your bike. Buy a high quality pair of lamps that attach securely to you bicycle, and carry spare batteries with you at all times, because headlights can fade suddenly, and without warning.

The clothes that you wear can help you avoid an accident. Don't just relay on specialist 'visibility' clothing. Wherever possible, choose light coloured clothes when you ride your bike. Even trousers and shoes can make a difference, by focusing on your overall visibility you increase the chance of being spotted by a driver. Any cyclist who wants to stay safe at night or in poor weather conditions should invest in some specialist equipment, such as a visibility jacket. Buy florescent clothes for the day time and reflective for the night to get maximum protection. Finally, they might not be fashionable, but bicycle clips that secure your trousers to your legs should be seen as an essential part of your safety kit.

Common Sense is the most important factor that protects a cyclist. Before going on the roads, make sure you know the Highway Code, and are familiar with road signs and markings. Don't talk on the phone or listen to music when riding your bike. Where possible, avoid cycling in bad weather. Risks on the road are numerous, and even the most careful cyclist can't guard against every danger. By following the above tips, you give yourself the best chance of staying safe and not becoming a tragic statistic.

Cycle Injury Information: Cycle Claims
Road Safety Information: Road Safety Advice - RoSPA