A new survey reveals that 40 per cent wrongly believe it is legal to ride on pedestrian pavements, despite this being prohibited under the Highway Act 1835 and Highway Code rule 64.
The poll, commissioned by Injury Lawyers 4u, exposes gaps in road safety knowledge among Warrington cyclists, raising concerns about public safety and legal compliance.
Andrew Twambley, founder and personal injury specialist lawyer at Injury Lawyers 4u, said: “Whether for leisure, fitness or the practicality of commuting, millions of Britons hop on their bikes each year.
“Yet as our latest research shows, too many are cycling without fully understanding their legal rights and responsibilities.
“Something as simple as riding on a pedestrian pavement or misunderstanding traffic lights can put cyclists and those around them at risk and see them breaking the law too.”
The survey found that 80 per cent of Warrington cyclists are confident they know the rules of the road, but the results suggest otherwise.
One in 10 cyclists did not think traffic lights applied to them, putting themselves and others at serious risk.
Cycling through a red light can result in a £50 fine, or more severe consequences if it leads to an accident.
A third of respondents were unaware that they are entitled to take the primary position in the middle of the lane, which is often the safest option according to the Highway Code.
Mr Twambley said: “With the weather changing and darker nights soon to come in, I’d urge cyclists to ensure they brush up on their knowledge not just to protect themselves but those around them.”
The survey also revealed that 40 per cent of cyclists would not know their legal rights if injured on the road, leaving them vulnerable in the event of an accident.
Mr Twambley said Injury Lawyers 4u supports cyclists injured through no fault of their own by helping them assess claims, gather evidence, and negotiate fair compensation.
He encouraged cyclists to revisit the Highway Code, emphasising that ignorance of the law is no defence.