A barrister has clarified the regulations surrounding cyclists and red lights, detailing exactly what is and isn't permitted. With the evenings drawing in, it's an opportune moment to refresh ourselves on cycling rules - particularly for those navigating early autumn mornings or evenings when lights and reflectors become essential.
A common point of confusion for motorists concerns the regulations governing cyclists at red lights. While it might appear straightforward that all road users must comply with traffic signals, cyclists have been known to flout this requirement.
In July 2025, a survey of London cyclists revealed that over half confessed to regularly jumping red lights. But what does the legislation actually state about this potentially hazardous practice?
Highway Code's rule 69
Barrister Daniel J. ShenSmith tackled this precise question in a 2021 video for his BlackBeltBarrister channel on YouTube. As he explains, the law is unambiguous regarding the contravention of red lights.
The Highway Code states cyclists "MUST NOT" pass a red light. He stated: "As many people have asked me before, cyclists must also obey traffic light signals, and this is in rule 69: You MUST obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals. And this is in the Road Traffic Act of 1988, section 36."
The wording remains unchanged since Daniel produced the video, though it does reference additional legislation: The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 (TSRGD), schedule 3 part 3; schedule 7 part 4; schedule 9 parts 4 and 6; schedule 13 part 6; and schedule 14 part 2.
Rule 71 goes further
"And if that wasn't clear enough, rule 71 goes further: You MUST NOT cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red. Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable you to wait and position yourself ahead of other traffic."
The Highway Code has maintained this rule with minimal alteration, continuing to stress the words "MUST NOT" regarding passing a red light. However, it now broadens the guidance to encompass "traffic light junctions and at cycle-only crossings with traffic lights".
Updates to the rule
The updated version states: "At traffic light junctions and at cycle-only crossings with traffic lights, you MUST NOT cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red. Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable you to position yourself ahead of other traffic and wait (see Rule 178). When the traffic lights are red, you may cross the first stop line, but you MUST NOT cross the final stop line."
This regulation remains governed by the Road Traffic Act of 1988, section 36, alongside the TSRGD Schedule 14, part 1.
Where cyclists must stop
He added: "Most of you should be familiar with that small section right in front of the traffic lights that often has a cycle printed on it. This is where cyclists must stop, and it would be an offence if they fail to do so."
Daniel clarified that cyclists cannot arrive at a red light and "ease" their way through for the purposes of ease or speed, emphasising that as a "responsible" cyclist, you must "absolutely stop at traffic lights".
Riding on a pavement
He then addressed those who might be tempted to continue on a pavement. "And on numerous occasions, I've seen cyclists get to a red light and then instead ride onto the pavement and go round the corner and carry on their journey, this is also not permitted."
Rule 64 makes clear that you "MUST NOT cycle on a pavement" (Highway Act 1835 sect 72 and R(S)A sect 129). Daniel highlighted, though, that cyclists are allowed to dismount and walk their bikes.
Rule 77 advises: "When crossing faster or busy main roads, you may find it safer and easier to dismount and push your cycle across."
