Make sure you are aware of who else is around you, and how far away they are. 

Be aware of potential hazards. 

You should keep at least 0.5 metres (just over 1.5 feet) away from the kerb edge (and further where it is safer) when riding on busy roads with vehicles moving faster than you. 

You may ride in the centre of your lane, known as the ‘primary position’, on quiet roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the approach to junctions or road narrowing 

If you are riding with others, you may ride 2 abreast, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders.  

At junctions with no separate cyclist facilities, you should position yourself as if you were driving a motor vehicle: 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. 

People cycling are asked to be aware of people driving behind them and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when it’s safe to do so. 

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.

Always use lights after dark or when visibility is poor.  

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.