With new government guidelines being announced stating that people should be going back to work if they are able to and safely social distance while they are there, we’ve taken a look at ways you can make your commute safer at this time.

If you typically use public transport to get to work, whether via bus or train, the new government guidelines may have caused you a bit of a headache. If you shouldn’t be using public transport, how can you get to work?

While it is still possible to use public transport and maintain social distancing, we have all been advised by the government to use other modes of transport wherever possible.

Walking or cycling ‎

If you don’t live too far away from your place of work, then walking or cycling is the perfect option for you. Getting a little bit of fresh air on your way to work is a really great way to set you up for the rest of the day. And, if you decide to walk or use a bike you already own, it’s completely free. However, if you live further away from your work, walking or cycling may not be an option.

Pros:

  • Free
  • Easily maintain social distancing
  • Better for the environment
  • Good for your health

Cons:

  • Can make your commute longer
  • Not the best option when the weather is poor
  • Not suitable for people with disabilities

Scooter or motorcycle ‎

The second option, and arguably the best, for safely commuting during the pandemic is with a scooter or motorbike. If you have to travel further than walking distance to get to work, but your commute isn’t too far, this option is the most convenient and cost-saving option available. Not only is the cost of buying and running a scooter a lot lower than a car, jumping onto two wheels is a much more stress-free alternative to driving. In fact, Lexham has previously conducted a survey showing that motorcycles are one of the least stressful ways of travelling to work. 

There are so many more benefits to choosing a scooter or motorcycle, from reducing your carbon footprint to easier storage - not to mention the fact that you can ride from the age of 16! If you’d like to find out more about the benefits of riding a scooter, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 reasons to choose a scooter. 

If you’re new to the world of two-wheeled transport, it can seem daunting to begin with, but we have plenty of tips across our blog that can help you to make the move. It’s really easy to get up and running with a scooter or moped, all you need is a provisional licence and to pass your CBT (compulsory basic training), and you’ll be able to ride a 50cc moped on the road with L plates. We have a handy guide on what’s involved in and how to pass your CBT if you’d like to find out a little more information about what to expect. There’s also a handy tool on the Government’s website with a directory of training schools, so you can easily find the best place to go to get your CBT. 

If a moped sounds like the best option to you, chances are as a new rider you’ll be looking at buying one. We understand that keeping costs down at this time is going to be very important, but it’s also vital that your vehicle is reliable. And, without prior knowledge of bikes, choosing the best option for you can be confusing, which is why we’ve created a second-hand scooter buying guide to help you find the perfect ride for you. 

If you already own a scooter or motorcycle, that you use for leisure, now is the time to dust her off and get her ready to travel with you to work every day. Don’t forget to get in touch to update your policy to include the additional mileage due to your commute. 

Pros:

  • Easily maintain social distancing
  • Excellent fuel economy (125s often get above 90mpg)
  • Cheap road tax from just £19 a year
  • Plenty of free parking
  • Can be ridden on a one day CBT course (up to 125cc depending on age)
  • Less stressful journey
  • Likely faster commute
  • Filter pass traffic jams and congestion

Cons:

    • Helmet hair
    • More expensive than walking or cycling

Driving ‎

The final, and perhaps most obvious option, is to drive a car to work. After years of being told to cut down on the amount of driving we do, and instead opt for public transport, now it appears the opposite is true. If you already have a car insured and on the road for leisure purposes, now is the time to make sure you’re correctly insured for your weekday commute

If you don’t already own a car, this is undoubtedly the most expensive option. Not only will you need to purchase a car, you will also need insurance, an MOT and road tax. With a vehicle like a car, these costs can easily mount up. The Money Advice Service has a handy Car Costs Calculator you can use to find out how much running a car will cost you.

Pros:

  • Easily maintain social distancing (as long as you travel alone)

Cons:

  • High cost
  • Full driving licence required
  • Difficult to find adequate parking
  • Expensive inner-city parking

And, there we have it - the best ways for you to get to work safely while social distancing. We hope we’ve been able to help you with your journey, but if you have any other questions you’d like our help with, please leave a comment below.