Rules for cyclists (59 to 82)

Rules for cyclists, including an overview, road junctions, roundabouts and crossing the road.

These rules are in addition to those in the following sections, which apply to all vehicles (except the motorway section). See also You and your bicycle.

Overview (rules 59 to 72)

Rule 59

Clothing. You should avoid clothes that may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights when you are cycling.

Light-coloured or fluorescent clothing can help other road users to see you in daylight and poor light, while reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt, arm or ankle bands) can increase your visibility in the dark.

You should wear a cycle helmet that conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened. Evidence suggests that a correctly fitted helmet will reduce your risk of sustaining a head injury in certain circumstances.

Rule 59: Help yourself to be seen

Rule 60

At night your 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.

Rule 61

Cycle Routes and Other Facilities. Cycle lanes are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway (see Rule 140). Use facilities such as cycle lanes and tracks, advanced stop lines and toucan crossings (see Rules 62 and 73) where they make your journey safer and easier. This will depend on your experience and skills and the situation at the time. While such facilities are provided for reasons of safety, cyclists may exercise their judgement and are not obliged to use them.

Rule 62

Cycle Tracks. These are routes for cyclists that are physically protected or located away from motor traffic, other than where they cross side roads (see Rule 206). Cycle tracks may run alongside footpaths or pavements and be separated by a feature such as a change of material, a verge, a kerb or a white line. You MUST keep to the side intended for cyclists as the pedestrian side remains a pavement or footpath.

Some cycle tracks shared with pedestrians will not be separated by such a feature. On such shared use routes, you should always take care when passing pedestrians, especially children, older or disabled people, and allow them plenty of room. Always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary (see Rule H2).

Rule 63

Sharing space with pedestrians, horse riders and horse drawn vehicles. When riding in places where sharing with pedestrians, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles is permitted, take care when passing pedestrians and horse riders, especially children, older adults or disabled people. Slow down when necessary and let them know you are there; for example, by ringing your bell (it is recommended that a bell is fitted to your bike), or by calling out politely.

Remember that pedestrians may be deaf, blind or partially sighted and that this may not be obvious.

Do not pass pedestrians, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles closely or at high speed, particularly from behind. You should not pass a horse on their left. Remember that horses can be startled if passed without warning. Always be prepared to slow down and stop when necessary.

Rule 64

You MUST NOT cycle on a pavement.

Rule 65

Bus Lanes. Most bus lanes may be used by cyclists as indicated on signs. Watch out for people getting on or off a bus. Be very careful when overtaking a bus or leaving a bus lane as you will be entering a busier traffic flow. Do not pass between the kerb and a bus when it is at a stop.

Rule 66

You should

avoid any actions that could reduce your control of your cycle
be considerate of the needs of other road users when riding in groups. You can ride two abreast and it can be safer to do so, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders. Be aware of drivers behind you and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when you feel it is safe to let them do so
not ride close behind another vehicle in case it stops suddenly
not carry anything which will affect your balance or may get tangled up with your wheels or chain
be considerate of other road users, particularly blind and partially sighted pedestrians, and horse riders (see Rule H1). Let them know you are there when necessary, for example, by calling out or ringing your bell if you have one. It is recommended that a bell be fitted.

Rule 67

You should

look all around to make sure it is safe before moving away from the kerb, when pulling out to overtake or to pass stationary vehicles, or when turning at junctions or stopping
watch out for obstructions in the road, such as drains, service covers and potholes, positioning yourself so you can move to the left (as well as to the right) to avoid them safely
take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened, and watch out for pedestrians stepping into your path
be aware of traffic coming up behind you, including other cyclists, and give a clear signal to show other road users what you intend to do see ‘Signals to other road users’)
take extra care near road humps, narrowings and other traffic calming features
when cycling on the road, only pass to the left of large vehicles when they are stationary or slow moving and you should proceed with caution as the driver may not be able to see you. Be particularly careful on the approach to junctions or where a large vehicle could change lanes to the left.

Rule 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.

Rule 69

You MUST obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals.

Rule 70

When parking your cycle

find a conspicuous location where it can be seen by passers-by
use cycle stands or other cycle parking facilities wherever possible
do not leave it where it would cause an obstruction or hazard to other road users
secure it well so that it will not fall over and become an obstruction or hazard.

Rule 71

At traffic light junctions and at cycle-only crossings with traffic lights, you MUST NOT cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red.

Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable you to position yourself ahead of other traffic and wait (see Rule 178). When the traffic lights are red, you may cross the first stop line, but you MUST NOT cross the final stop line.

Rule 72

Road positioning. When riding on the roads, there are two basic road positions you should adopt, depending on the situation.

1) Ride in the centre of your lane, to make yourself as clearly visible as possible, in the following situations

on quiet roads or streets – if a faster vehicle comes up behind you, move to the left to enable them to overtake, if you can do so safely
in slower-moving traffic - when the traffic around you starts to flow more freely, move over to the left if you can do so safely so that faster vehicles behind you can overtake
at the approach to junctions or road narrowings where it would be unsafe for drivers to overtake you

2) When riding on busy roads, with vehicles moving faster than you, allow them to overtake where it is safe to do so whilst keeping at least 0.5 metres away, and further where it is safer, from the kerb edge. Remember that traffic on most dual carriageways moves quickly. Take extra care crossing slip roads.

Road junctions (rules 73 to 77)

Rule 73

Junctions. Some junctions, particularly those with traffic lights, have special cycle facilities, including small cycle traffic lights at eye-level height, which may allow you to move or cross separately from or ahead of other traffic. Use these facilities where they make your journey safer and easier.

At junctions with no separate cyclist facilities, it is recommended that you proceed as if you were driving a motor vehicle (see Rules 170 to 190).

Position yourself in the centre of your chosen lane, where you feel able to do this safely, to make yourself as visible as possible and to avoid being overtaken where this would be dangerous. If you do not feel safe to proceed in this way, you may prefer to dismount and wheel your bike across the junction.

Rule 74

Turning. When approaching a junction on the left, watch out for vehicles turning in front of you, out of or into the side road. If you intend to turn left, check first for other cyclists or motorcyclists before signalling. Do not ride on the inside of vehicles signalling or slowing down to turn left.

If you are turning right, check the traffic to ensure it is safe, then signal and move to the centre of the road. Wait until there is a safe gap in the oncoming traffic and give a final look before completing the turn. It may be safer to wait on the left until there is a safe gap or to dismount and push your cycle across the road.

When turning into or out of a side road, you should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross (see Rule H2).

Rule 75

Two Stage Turns. At some signal-controlled junctions there may be signs and markings informing cyclists to turn right in two stages:

Stage 1: When the traffic lights turn green, cyclists wishing to make the turn should go straight ahead to the location marked by a cycle symbol and turn arrow on the carriageway; then stop and wait there

Stage 2: When the traffic lights on the far side of the junction, now facing the cyclists, turn green, they should then complete the manoeuvre

Rule 76

Going straight ahead. If you are going straight ahead at a junction, you have priority over traffic waiting to turn into or out of the side road, unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise (see Rule H3). Check that you can proceed safely, particularly when approaching junctions on the left alongside stationary or slow-moving traffic. Watch out for drivers intending to turn across your path. Remember the driver ahead may not be able to see you, so bear in mind your speed and position in the road.

Take great care when deciding whether it is safe to pass stationary or slow-moving lorries and other long vehicles, especially at the approach to junctions, as their drivers may not be able to see you. Remember that they may have to move over to the right before turning left, and that their rear wheels may then come very close to the kerb while turning (see Rule 67).

Rule 77

Busy roads. When crossing faster or busy main roads, you may find it safer and easier to

dismount and push your cycle across
wait for a safe gap in the traffic before doing so, especially on faster roads and dual carriageways
make use of traffic islands or central reservations to help you where appropriate.

Roundabouts (rules 78 to 80)

Rule 78

Full details about the correct procedure at roundabouts without cycle facilities are contained in Rules 184 to 190.

Watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout, remembering that drivers may not easily see you.

Rule 79

If you are turning right, you can ride in the left or right-hand lanes and move left when approaching your exit. Position yourself in the centre of your lane if it is safe to do so (see Rule 72) and signal right to indicate that you are not leaving the roundabout. Alternatively, you may feel safer walking your cycle round on the pavement or verge.

If you decide to ride round keeping to the left-hand lane you should

be aware that drivers may not easily see you
take extra care when cycling across exits. You should signal right to show you are not leaving the roundabout
watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout.

Where a roundabout has separate cycle facilities, you should use these facilities where they make your journey safer and easier although you are not obliged to use them. This will depend on your experience and skills and the situation at the time.

Rule 80

Give plenty of room to long vehicles on the roundabout as they need more space to manoeuvre. Do not ride in the space they need to get round the roundabout. It may be safer to wait until they have cleared the roundabout.

Crossing the road (rules 81 to 82)

Rule 81

Do not ride across equestrian crossings, as they are for horse riders only. Do not ride across a pelican, puffin or zebra crossing. Dismount and wheel your cycle across.

Rule 82

Crossings. Toucan crossings are light-controlled crossings which allow cyclists and pedestrians to share crossing space and cross at the same time. They are push-button operated. Pedestrians and cyclists will see the green signal together. Cyclists are permitted to ride across.

Cycle tracks on opposite sides of the road may be linked by cycle-only signalled crossings. You may ride across but you MUST NOT cross until the green cycle symbol is showing.

Cycle track crossings can be in spacious pedestrian environments. Cyclists should look out and be prepared to stop for pedestrians crossing the track informally as well as at these designated points.

Take extra care when crossing level crossings and tramways (see Rule 306). You should dismount at level crossings where a ‘cyclist dismount’ sign is displayed.

Author's Explanation

Cycling Safety Rules Explained (Rules 59–72)

Cyclists are vulnerable road users, so visibility, control and awareness are essential for staying safe. The Highway Code advises cyclists to wear suitable clothing, use correct lights at night and wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce risks when riding in different conditions.

Cyclists should use cycle facilities where they make journeys safer, but they must also use their judgement depending on the road layout, traffic conditions and their own experience. Shared routes require extra care around pedestrians, horse riders and other vulnerable road users.

Good road positioning helps cyclists stay visible and avoid dangerous situations. Riders should follow traffic signals, avoid careless behaviour, keep control of their bicycle and make clear decisions when changing direction, overtaking or riding near larger vehicles.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: A cyclist travelling home after dark uses a white front light, a red rear light and reflective accessories so drivers can identify their position on the road.

Example 2: A cyclist approaches a shared cycle path and slows down before passing pedestrians, giving them enough space and warning them politely.

Example 3: A rider passes parked cars by keeping a safe distance because a vehicle door could open suddenly into their path.

Example 4: A cyclist riding in heavy traffic moves into a visible road position before a junction instead of allowing vehicles to overtake where it would be unsafe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cyclists have to wear a helmet in the UK?

Cyclists are advised to wear a properly fitted helmet that meets current safety standards. A suitable helmet can help reduce the risk of head injuries in some situations.

What lights must a bicycle have at night?

At night, a bicycle must have a lit white front light and a lit red rear light. A red rear reflector and suitable additional reflectors are also required in certain circumstances.

Can cyclists ride on pavements?

No. Cyclists must not ride on pavements unless a specific exception or sign allows it. Pavements are intended primarily for pedestrians.

Should cyclists use cycle lanes?

Cycle lanes and tracks should be used when they make a journey safer and easier. Cyclists should consider the road conditions, their confidence and the situation before deciding the safest option.

How should cyclists position themselves on the road?

Cyclists should choose a road position that keeps them visible and safe. In some situations riding in the centre of a lane helps prevent dangerous overtaking, while on faster roads cyclists should allow vehicles to pass when it is safe.

Author's Explanation

Cyclists at Road Junctions Explained (Rules 73–77)

Road junctions are some of the highest-risk areas for cyclists because vehicles may change direction, cross their path or fail to notice a cyclist approaching. The Highway Code advises riders to use dedicated cycle facilities where available and position themselves clearly when travelling through junctions.

When there are no separate cycling facilities, cyclists should approach junctions in a similar way to drivers. A visible road position can help prevent unsafe overtaking, especially where the road becomes narrow or where vehicles may turn across the cyclist’s path.

Turning requires extra care. Cyclists should check around them, signal clearly and make sure there is enough space before changing direction. At busy junctions or faster roads, it may sometimes be safer to dismount and walk the bicycle across.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: A cyclist approaches a traffic light junction with a cycle box and uses the marked area to wait safely ahead of other traffic.

Example 2: A cyclist turning right checks behind, signals clearly and moves into a suitable position only when the road is safe.

Example 3: A cyclist travelling straight through a junction stays visible instead of passing closely beside a large vehicle that may turn left.

Example 4: A cyclist decides to get off and push their bicycle across a busy main road because traffic conditions make riding across unsafe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should cyclists use cycle traffic lights at junctions?

Yes. Where dedicated cycle signals or facilities are provided, cyclists should use them when they make the journey safer and easier.

How should cyclists turn right at a junction?

Cyclists should check traffic, signal their intention and move into a safe position. If the road feels unsafe, they can wait on the left or dismount and cross the road as a pedestrian.

Do cyclists have priority when going straight ahead?

Cyclists travelling straight ahead usually have priority over vehicles turning into or out of side roads, unless signs or road markings state otherwise. They should still check that it is safe before continuing.

Why should cyclists be careful around lorries at junctions?

Large vehicles have significant blind spots and need extra space when turning. Cyclists should avoid passing close to lorries, especially on the left near junctions.

When should a cyclist walk across a road?

Cyclists may choose to dismount and push their bicycle across when traffic is heavy, the road is fast or they do not feel confident that they can cross safely.

Author's Explanation

Cyclists at Roundabouts Explained (Rules 78–80)

Roundabouts can be challenging for cyclists because vehicles may enter, leave or change direction while cyclists are travelling around them. The Highway Code advises cyclists to stay visible, choose a safe road position and be aware that drivers may not always see them easily.

Cyclists should position themselves according to their intended route and traffic conditions. A clear position on the road can help prevent dangerous overtaking and makes it easier for other road users to understand the cyclist’s movements.

Extra care is required around large vehicles because lorries and buses need more space to manoeuvre. Cyclists should avoid riding in areas where a large vehicle may need to turn and should wait if necessary until it is safe to continue.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: A cyclist approaching a roundabout checks traffic behind them and moves into a visible position before continuing safely.

Example 2: A cyclist turning right signals clearly and remains aware of vehicles entering or leaving the roundabout.

Example 3: A cyclist notices a large lorry approaching a roundabout and waits rather than riding alongside the vehicle where the driver may have limited visibility.

Example 4: A less confident cyclist chooses a separate cycle route around a roundabout because it provides a safer option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cyclists use the whole lane on a roundabout?

Yes. Cyclists may use the centre of a lane when this helps them stay visible and prevents unsafe overtaking. The safest position depends on the road layout and traffic conditions.

How should cyclists turn right at a roundabout?

Cyclists should approach carefully, signal right and choose a safe position. They should watch for vehicles joining or leaving the roundabout and only move when it is safe.

Why should cyclists be careful around vehicles on roundabouts?

Some drivers may not notice cyclists easily, especially near exits and entry points. Staying visible and making clear movements helps reduce the risk of collisions.

Should cyclists use separate cycle facilities at roundabouts?

Where separate cycle facilities are available, cyclists should use them when they make the journey safer and easier. The choice depends on the rider’s experience and the conditions.

How should cyclists pass large vehicles at roundabouts?

Cyclists should give lorries and buses plenty of space because these vehicles need extra room when turning. Waiting behind a large vehicle can often be safer than passing closely.

Author's Explanation

Cyclists Crossing the Road Explained (Rules 81–82)

Cyclists must understand that not all pedestrian crossings are designed for riding across. Some crossings are intended only for pedestrians or horse riders, meaning cyclists should dismount and walk their bicycle across when using these facilities.

Toucan crossings are different because they are specifically designed for both cyclists and pedestrians. Cyclists may ride across when the green cycle signal is displayed, but they should still remain alert and give way to pedestrians who may be crossing the route.

Extra care is needed at locations such as level crossings, tramways and cycle track crossings. Cyclists should slow down, check their surroundings and be prepared to stop whenever other road users may be present.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: A cyclist arrives at a zebra crossing and gets off the bicycle before walking across with pedestrians.

Example 2: A cyclist uses a toucan crossing and rides across only after the green cycle signal appears.

Example 3: A cyclist approaching a shared cycle crossing slows down because pedestrians may step onto the route unexpectedly.

Example 4: A cyclist reaches a level crossing with a “cyclist dismount” sign and follows the instruction by walking the bicycle across.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cyclists ride across a zebra crossing?

No. Cyclists should dismount and walk their bicycle across zebra crossings. These crossings are designed for pedestrians rather than riders.

Can cyclists use toucan crossings?

Yes. Toucan crossings are designed for both cyclists and pedestrians. Cyclists can ride across when the appropriate green cycle signal is displayed.

Can cyclists ride across pelican or puffin crossings?

No. Cyclists should dismount and push their bicycle across these crossings because they are intended for pedestrians.

What should cyclists do at cycle track crossings?

Cyclists should wait until the green cycle symbol is shown before crossing. They should also watch for pedestrians and be prepared to stop if necessary.

Should cyclists slow down at level crossings?

Yes. Cyclists should approach level crossings carefully, follow any signs such as “cyclist dismount” and make sure it is safe before continuing.