Cyclists warned riding in the middle of the road is ‘daft’

Jonathan White, spokesperson for the National Accident Helpline said you would ‘expect cyclists’ to use lanes designed for them if available. However, new rule changes say cyclists should ‘ride in the centre of your lane’ under some circumstances.Speaking to Express.co.uk, he said: ‘Where there’s a cycle lane specifically designed for use by cyclists, you would expect cyclists to use that.”He added: ‘That would seem a bit daft to drive in the middle of the lane when there is a nice cycle lane, specifically designed for you to ride safely.’Rule 72 of the Highway Code says drivers should ride in the centre to make themselves ‘clearly visible’.This is appropriate on quiet roads or streets, in slower-moving traffic, or when approaching junctions or road narrowings.READ MORE: Motorists risk huge fines for using a common fuel-saving technique Cyclists have been warned that riding in the middle of a road is ‘daft’. (Image: Getty)Cyclists have also been given extra priorities at junctions and roundabouts to boost road safety.The new plans were backed by more than 88 percent of respondents in a Department for Transport consultation.However, some who disagreed with the changes felt the new rule came with risks.They said the new rules could put ‘too much burden’ on the drivers of vehicles to spot cyclists who do not always wear hi-viz jackets.DON’T MISS Driving cost-cutting measures could be a ‘life or death decision’ [INSIGHT] Electric car uptake still facing ‘major barriers’ in the UK [REVEAL] UK motorists warned of driving law changes in November [WARNING]  The new rules came into effect earlier this year. (Image: Getty) The UK’s most dangerous regions to drive in. (Image: EXPRESS)’It’s probably the principle that the road isn’t solely for the use by drivers and cars.’Pedestrians when crossing safely or cyclists are equally entitled to use the road.’There can be a view that the roads are for cars and it’s just stressing really road use is for everyone.’