Cycling safety
Whether you’re driving or cycling (or both), follow our safety tips and stay safe on Hampshire roads.
When you're driving
Look out for cyclists, especially at junctions - make eye contact if possible so they know you’ve seen them.
Give cyclists space when overtaking them, leaving at least 1.5 metres between the cyclist and your vehicle. If there isn’t enough space to pass, hold back. Remember that cyclists may need to manoeuvre suddenly, for example if it’s windy or if a car door is opened.
Always check for cyclists when you open your car door.
When you're cycling
Ride positively, decisively and well clear of the kerb. When approaching a junction, roundabout or potential hazard, check carefully and move into the middle of the lane to make yourself visible to other road users.
Look and signal to show drivers what you plan to do, and make eye contact where possible to gauge whether or not you’ve been seen - particularly at junctions.
Ride a door’s width from parked cars in case the door opens suddenly.
Follow the Highway Code including observing ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights. At night you must have front and rear lights. Flashing lights are permitted.
Do the Dutch Reach
Use your left hand to open on driver side or your right hand to open on passenger side. You’ll turn your head to look over your shoulder, and in doing so you’re more likely to spot passing cyclists, motorcyclists or pedestrians.
This technique is now part of the updated Highway Code for drivers across the UK.
For more information
This blog post from Cycling UK’s cycle instructor Julie Rand explains some of these tips in more detail.
Car users should now open their doors with the hand furthest from the door, to help them look over their shoulder to see people walking or cycling behind them.