Riding a bicycle is often a good way to get out and about when you want to ditch the car for a change.
Whether you choose to cycle to work or prefer to cycle in your free time to get a bit of fresh air, bicycles are useful in many ways.
However, more often than not, you will have probably seen some cyclists not wearing a helmet.
You might be wondering if this is illegal or if people can be fined for doing so in the UK. Let’s find out.
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Is it illegal to ride a bike without a helmet?
It is not a legal requirement to wear a cycling helmet in the UK, according to Cycles UK.
Yet the Highway Code suggests that cyclists should wear a helmet.
The cycling experts commented: “You will also find that most organised cycle events, including cycle club rides, will insist on you wearing a helmet. Most cycle facilities such as bike parks will also insist on a helmet.”
They added: “Wearing a helmet is recommended and very common with regular cyclists. At Cycles UK we encourage people to wear a helmet regardless of if you are riding on the road or not.
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“Modern cycle helmets are very light, comfortable and easy to wear. The chances of a bike helmet saving your life, or at least reducing the severity of an injury, are high enough to make it worth wearing one. So do you have to wear a bike helmet? You are not required to wear a bike helmet by law.”
Recommended reading:
- Is it against the law to ride a bike on the pavement? These are the rules
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What is the penalty for riding a motorcycle without a helmet in the UK?
However, when it comes to riding a motorcycle without a helmet, this is illegal, as outlined by Graham Coffey Solicitors & Co.
The legal experts explained: “Motorcyclists who are found without a helmet can receive an official warning or a fine of up to £500.
“Riding a motorbike without a crash helmet is not only illegal, but also dangerous.
“By reducing the impact of a force or collision to the head, a helmet minimises the risk of significant head and brain injuries.
"If you are in an accident and are not wearing a helmet, you are more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries.”
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