As more and more bicycles appear on our roads abiding the rules of the traffic become increasingly serious issue. Many people gets angry that cyclists are irresponsible (and some fraction of people really are - as we see on the streets) and do not pay road tax and insurance like other traffic members. But even if a part of society does not obey the rules, the rules are there and breaking them is equal to breaking the law and should be punished by all means. Lets remind the basic safety must-do’s that appear in the Highway Code:

“(…)You MUST -ensure your brakes are efficient, -at night, use lit front and rear lights and have a red rear reflector. (…)” (AA Media Limited, 2019, p. 458) “(…) 59.Clothing. You should wear – a cycle helmet which conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened. – appropriate clothes for cycling. Avoid clothes that may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights. – light-coloured or fluorescent clothing which helps other road users to see you in daylight and poor light. – reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt,arm or ankle bands) in the dark. 60.At night you cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp. (…) 64 You MUST NOT cycle on a pavement. (…) 68. You MUST NOT – carry a passenger unless your cycle has been built or adapted to carry one. – hold onto a moving vehicle or trailer. – ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner. – ride when under the influence of drink or drugs, including medicine. 69. You MUST obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals.” (AA Media Limited, 2019, pp.376-380)

To ride safely the common sense is that we should avoid any foolish or reckless behaviours because our safety depends on that constantly as we know situation on the road changes quickly. Another important issue is to be visible. Hi-vis clothing and lights at night are necessarily as every driver knows it is really hard to see someone without lights and reflectors in the dark. Wearing a helmet is also obligatory by law and during a serious accident it can save lives. Last part is to follow the road signs and signals as well as not riding on the pavement because it is, we then who can cause a serious accident. And if you drank alcohol or took drugs you should stay at home!