Now we are into the winter months with shorter days and darker nights, can we ask you to look at your personal safety. Make sure if you are cycling at this time of year you consider the points below and remember that visibility is the key.
- Always use good lights on your bike both front and rear lights. There are lots of makes/models on the market to match your budget.
- 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 avoid clothes that may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights when you are cycling.
- Wear a correctly fitted cycle helmet that is securely fastened and conforms to current regulations.
- Your local council and other popular online apps can help you plan your journey by providing maps showing dedicated paths and routes.
You should consider improving your cycling through accessing cycle training opportunities in your area such as council-funded or private training with a qualified cycling instructor.
This article was written by the Lawley and Overdale Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT).