Cycle safety is more important as we get older. For older people, there is greater risk of injury if they have a crash, even a minor crash, while out cycling.
Cycling safety tips
- Be visible to other road users and pedestrians – wearing high-vis clothing can help others to see you. It is also a legal requirement to have lights and pedal retroreflectors on your bike when cycling at night or when visibility is poor.
- Protect yourself. Always wear a helmet – this is the law and reduces the risk of head injury if you're involved in a crash.
- Show drivers what you plan to do in plenty of time. Always look and signal before you start, stop or make a turn. Make eye contact with drivers and let them know you've seen them.
- Ride decisively. Maintain a predictable riding line and clearly signal your intentions.
- Where possible use cycle lanes, paths, and stopping areas for cycles at traffic lights.
More information about safe cycling
BikeReady training
The BikeReady programme can help you gain the confidence and skills for the road conditions you expect to encounter on everyday rides. Workshops and other cycle skills training opportunities are run by professional instructors throughout New Zealand.
BikeReady training(external link)
