Forum Topic

New cycle route Hammersmith - Right of way

I have been to Hammersmith for first time in over a year. As I approached the roundabout having taken the slip from Great West Road, I entered the roundabout and wanted to turn left into Blacks Rd that runs behind M&S.  Now it appears I have to cross a cycle Lane in order to turn left. I have a question do I need to give way to cyclists come up the inside on cycle way before turning. I did this. However the reason for my question is that it was dark and the three cyclists using the lane all had no lights so I almost didn’t see them.

Sean Wales ● 1525d5 Comments

You did the right thing. Thank you.

Paul Campbell ● 1525d

Good question. Clearly you did the right thing. Do note Section 60 of the Highway Code reads as follows.  'At night your cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.'So if cyclists are cycling without lights or reflectors THEY are liable.  Basic stuff.

Jonathan Mabbutt ● 1525d

Well done for spotting them Sean.They may be liable but they may also be seriously injured or worse. C9 is poorly lit with large overhanging trees as it crosses the bottom of my and other roads so it can be  difficult to spot unlit bikes particularly when the rider is dressed in dark clothing.What is the matter with these people? Plain stupid.

Adrian Irving ● 1524d

They are as stupid as morons who walk straight out into the road or onto a crossing without looking. All responsibility for THIER safety is apparently down to the road user, whether they be mechanised or cyclists.

Peter King ● 1524d

Sean, are you sure they all had no lights? It seems to be extraordinary that anybody would cycle around the Gyratory at night without this basic precaution even with the segregated lane in place. Could it be that you didn't see the lights they had because of you were driving initially parallel to them and then approached at a right angle? Some bike lights are only clearly visible from directly ahead and behind. Once upon a time many bikes had reflectors on the spokes to allow for this but less so these days.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 1524d