With summer finally here, many of us will be beginning to make the most of the weather by leaving the car at home and walking or cycling to work and school. However, with recent research revealing that cyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users, Road Safety Scotland is urging both motorists and cyclists to be aware of the risks this summer and help keep everyone safe.
Cycling accidents
Over 15,000 cyclists are killed or injured in road accidents in the UK every year. 72% of all these accidents occur during the period of April to September so it is clear the lighter mornings and evenings encourage us to use cycling as a mode of transport for the daily commute to work, as well as a leisure activity with family and friends.
Cycling accidents are caused by a wide range of circumstances, however 83% of all serious accidents happen in 30 mph zones. Car doors opening, vehicles cutting in front of cyclists and cars pulling out unexpectedly are all common causes but by wearing high visability clothing, a helmet and obeying the rules of the Highway Code, cyclists can take responsibility for their own safety and other road users.
Mutual Respect
The Government aims to increase the number of cyclists using their bikes as a mode of transport rather than just purely for leisure however, it is felt that the growth in cycling will be limited without greater acceptance and respect of cyclists by other road users.
Although cyclists are known to be vulnerable road users, they are not generally considered by drivers to deserve priority on the road. Poor perceptions of cyclists generally are often based on the bad habits of the minority. In contrast, although cyclists tend to attribute poor driving to a small group of bad drivers, in general they have a fairly good perception of drivers they encounter.
Saving lives
Mairi Blair, Assistant Director of Road Safety Scotland, comments: "It is clear there is a need for a change in attitudes to help foster more positive road sharing habits. As road users, cyclists must show consideration to other road users and, in return, drivers must show greater tolerance and acceptance towards cyclists. This will help promote both considerate driving and safer cycling, which in turn will ensure lives are saved"