Green Lights for UK Blood Bikes — And Why It Matters

UK Blood bikes could soon get the green light — literally. A public vote is now open on whether volunteer riders delivering supplies should be allowed to use green emergency lights on UK roads.

In a rush? You can vote now here.

What Are Blood Bikes

Author - Cheesy mike, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Blood bikes don’t ride for kudos — they ride because deliveries are critical and someone’s waiting at the other end. They’re volunteer-run motorcycle groups handling medical deliveries when the normal systems clock off. In the UK, that means moving blood, plasma, organs, donor milk, and critical lab samples between hospitals — every day, often at night, and during holidays, when time is tight and options are limited.

They’re not government-funded and they don’t have any extra rights on the road. No heroics, just riders doing precise runs so hospitals can keep operating without delays. Most groups are registered charities, and riders supply their own bike, fuel, training, insurance, commitment, and risk.

Vote Now

Blood Bike, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This isn’t a riders-only decision. The vote is open to everyone — and that matters, because the outcome affects everyone.

At the moment, blood bikes operate within standard road rules, even when carrying urgent medical supplies. The proposal would allow them to display green emergency lights during active runs. Not to bend the rules — just to be seen. So far, 31,150 people have voted. You can help push that number higher — follow this link.

Why This Matters

Even with high-vis jackets and red stripes, blood bikes aren’t a formal emergency service — though many would argue they should be. They operate in the gaps, without the protections and tools most essential services take for granted.

Author - Cheesy mike, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

But many UK road users know who they are and what they do. That recognition counts. Allowing green emergency lights is an important step forward. It gives riders a clear safety upgrade when they need it most and helps other road users understand what’s happening around them, react sooner, and give space when seconds actually count.

It doesn’t turn blood bikes into blue-light services, but it does acknowledge reality: these riders are providing an essential function. It’s not about privileges — it’s about getting there in time.

Ride safe, folks.

Since this article was published, we've been speaking directly to blood bikers about what the green lights petition means for them. You can read our follow up article: Blood Bikers Speak - Green Lights Aren't a Silver Bullet

If you're in the UK, you can vote now by clicking this link.

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