- Cycling in the UK has increased by as much as 200% during the coronavirus lockdown
- National Accident Helpline has found that 46% of cyclists have been in an accident on the UK’s roads
- Manchester is the most dangerous city for a cycling accident
Cycling was one of the many hobbies Brits took up during lockdown to help beat boredom while getting fit and active. In a recent Covid briefing, Secretary for Transport Grant Shapps announced that levels of cycling in the UK have soared as much as 200% on weekends, with a 100% increase on weekdays.
Research from National Accident Helpline found that 46% of cyclists had been in an accident on the UK’s roads. Now, the personal injury specialist is predicting a further rise in accidents and is calling for more caution on roads up and down the UK.
Despite London having the most cyclists, the research also showed that, Belfast and Manchester are the most dangerous cities to be a bike-user with 71% and 60.2% of users having been involved in an accident respectively.
Recent stats from Rail Delivery Group (RDG) found that public transport use was still just 33% of its pre-Covid rate, indicating how many workers are becoming less reliant on public transport. Drivers may also be turning to cycling to avoid charges as a result of new Clean Air Zones in certain cities.
With more people using bikes and the growing popularity of e-scooters, the number of vulnerable road users is rising. This could increase the risk of personal injury, which is why National Accident Helpline is sharing its top tips on staying safe on the road:
- Always protect yourself with a helmet when cycling or a seatbelt when in a car.
- Stop, look and listen when approaching pedestrian crossings. Wait to make sure the vehicle has stopped before you set foot onto the crossing.
- Improve your visibility while cycling by wearing ankle reflectors. Simple, easy and cheap – but thought to be especially effective due to the motion involved.
- Avoid wearing earphones while cycling or having loud music in your car, especially in heavy traffic where being able to hear what’s happening around you is important.
- Motorists: If you haven’t ridden a bike for a while, borrow one and go for a ride. You may get a fresh perspective on how you as a motorist can keep cyclists safe.
Jonathan White, Legal and Compliance Director at National Accident Helpline, said:
“There are many things cyclists can do to help prevent accidents from happening or to minimise the risk of injury, such as wearing reflective clothing and a well fitted helmet. “Accidents still happen, however. We know the immense impact they can have, from discomfort caused by an injury to having to take time off work.
“People may be unsure about what to do when involved in a cycling accident where they weren’t at fault. Our team is committed to helping them understand their options, including making a personal injury claim that can help them get their life back on track.”
For more information, please visit:
https://www.national-accident-helpline.co.uk/news/post/keeping-safe-on-the-roads