Survey reveals just how little some motorists know about cyclists' rights

Lack of knowledge combined with plenty of anger, study finds

If you've ever been shouted at for riding outside a cycle lane or riding two abreast, then you won't be surprised to hear about the results of a survey that has revealed the lack of motorists' knowledge about cyclists' rights, and the extent of their road rage.

According to a survey of 1,000 motorists conducted by eBikes Direct, 81 per cent of drivers believe that cyclists have to stay on the left-hand side of the road, and 65 per cent think they must use a cycle lane when one is available (neither of which they are required to do).

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73 per cent also think that that cyclists are not allowed to ride two abreast (a figure that rises to 92 per cent among Londoners), while almost a quarter think that cyclists are allowed to ride on pavements.

This lack of knowledge about what cyclists can and cannot do is let out in considerable anger towards cyclists.

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The survey also found that 39 per cent of drivers say they have go angry at a cyclist. However this figure varies widely depending on the region, with 80 per cent of motorists in the south east admitting that they have shouted at a cyclist.

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Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.