Although cycle lanes can be great to use, and the highway code does advise cyclists to use them, you aren’t obliged to. In fact, it can sometimes be safer to ride outside them, if you need to take the lane or adopt the primary position.

An example might be if there are lots of cars parked along the cycle lane – rather than bobbing in and out of the cycle lane, it may be safer just to stay on a steady course on the road.

Highway Code, Rules for Cyclists: 61 Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.