One in six cyclists confessed to riding their bike while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, despite it being against the law. A whopping also 43% didn’t know that this was included in the Highway Code.

Not all cyclists are up to date with the Highway Code, as 26% of them didn’t know there was a section in the Highway Code specifically for those who are riding a bike. This part of the code covers a variety of road laws to keep cyclists safe, including what equipment they are required to use and where they should cycle.

This comes after half of cyclists also admitted that they don’t always wear helmets when out on the road because they’re seen as ‘uncool’. But helmets aren’t the only safety measures getting left at home, as cyclists also admitted to ignoring front and rear lighting and putting on reflective clothing – despite it being an offence to go without them after dark.

A poll of 1,000 adults who regularly ride a bike found the most common reason for avoiding the protective headgear is because they only travel short distances (31%), while 13% don’t put them on because they want to avoid getting bad hair.

Pippa Wibberley, cycling director for Halfords, which commissioned the research, said: “Cycling is one of the easiest ways to get around and stay active, but our research shows many riders are skipping safety measures, often for relatable reasons.

“Safety items like helmets, lights, and reflective clothing are there for a reason and can be the difference between a minor injury and something more severe.

With more than half (53%) believing you can cycle on pavements up until the age of 18 – despite the laws suggesting that no one should cycle on pavements. Two in ten cyclists also admitted they regularly ride on footpaths.

Meanwhile, more than a quarter (28%) think you can’t cycle in bus lanes, but the code suggests cyclists can go in most of them.

One in ten choose to cycle through red lights often or all the time when taking their bike to the road.

The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, found 70% believe you should take a cycling test before getting on a bike on public roads, with 48% of those polled never having done a cycling proficiency test or bikeability training.

More than a third (35%) of pedal bikers said they’ve had an accident or near miss when taking their push-bike on the street. For 73% this became a turning point as they’ve taken safety measures more seriously afterwards.

Pippa Wibberley for Halfords added: “There are a wide variety of helmets and cycling accessories, meaning there are plenty of options to find something comfortable and to your taste.

“The team in our stores are knowledgeable and on hand to help cyclists choose the right kit and make sure their bike is properly set up, so they can ride with confidence.”