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Many different vehicle users share the same roads, which can sometimes make the differences between their rule set somewhat confusing to understand.
In January 2022, there were several changes implemented to the highway code that affect all road users. Many rules specifically involve cyclists, such as the change that ensures priority should be given to cyclists on roundabouts.
In light of this, this blog will refresh your memory on cycling safety, and help you understand how to manage cycling risks with signs.
Cycling Signs, Explained
There are several cyclist-specific signs that can, and should, be used when managing cycling traffic. From designated cyclist only routes to those for everyone else, these are some of the most important signs for cyclists that you should be familiar with.
Cycle Route Only
This sign should be visible when the following path is only to be used by cyclists. As with all blue circle signs, this cycle route only sign is a mandatory instruction.
While it doesn’t mean that cyclists have to use the path, it does mean that other kinds of road user, including pedestrians, are exempt from using the route.
Pedal Cycle and Pedestrian Route (Combined and Segregated)
These signs are similar to the cycle route sign above, but are used when cyclists should expect to share the path with pedestrians.
The pedal cycle and pedestrian route sign should be used when pedestrians and cyclists will be using the same path, in which case cyclists should make good use of their bell to alert pedestrians of their presence.
Slightly differently, the segregated pedal cycle and pedestrian route sign should be used when pedestrians and cyclists are both able to use the same route, but each is assigned their own path side-by-side.
Cycle Route
This rectangular sign, while similar, is not quite the same as the circle signs listed above. The rectangle represents advice or information, rather than an instruction or warning as with circles and triangles respectively.
This cycle route sign, therefore, points out recommended cycle routes on busier roads where you may want to cycle separately from the main flow of traffic.
Cycle Lane Look Both Ways
This sign is fairly self-explanatory thanks to the added text. It recommends that road users look both ways when intercepting a cycle lane to minimise collisions, particularly between cyclists and pedestrians.
You may also see look left and look right signs that match this cycle lane look both ways sign for when you’re dealing with one-way traffic.
End of Cycle Route
Much like the above, the words on this end of cycle route sign make it easy to understand. It marks the end of the path designated to cyclists alone but does not mean the cyclist needs to dismount.
All this means is that from the moment this sign appears, other road users may also share the path with cyclists. It often means that the path joins a main road.
No Cycling
Just like all circle signs, this no cycling sign signifies an instruction, rather than recommendation,. It’s useful for when you have a route or footpath that is particularly narrow, or with dangerous bends that should not be taken at speed.
While you shouldn’t ride a bike on a route that follows this no cycling sign, cyclists are still able to dismount and push their pedal bikes. These instructional signs are important to obey to ensure cycling road safety and minimise collisions.
Cycling Safety Tips
If you’re a cyclist yourself, there are other behaviours that you can employ as well as understanding traffic laws and signage to prioritise your safety when sharing the road with larger vehicles. Some of these should include:
- Wearing high visibility clothing or other high-vis equipment that ensures you will be seen.
- Making sure that you have a working bell so that you can alert pedestrians of your presence when necessary.
- Keeping good maintenance of your bicycle, especially the brakes and chain.
- Always wearing a helmet and keeping both hands on the handlebars, unless indicating.
Or, if you’re brushing up on your cycling sign knowledge to plan a route or event with cyclist accessibility, why not have a look at our blog on event management for more information on the other signs and labels you may need to ensure complete safety.
Keep Cyclists Safe with Label Source
At Label Source, we provide a vast range of traffic signs that you can use to keep cyclists and other road users safe.
For advice on how to safely manage cycling risks through signage, or seek answers to other sign and label related questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
