Think safe when using the roads
Sergeant Owen Messenger from Devon and Cornwall Police is urging drivers and cyclists to ‘think safe’ when using the county’s roads.
Since the start of the year, there have been five incidents involving pedal cycles; all of which were serious. Last year alone, there were 77 casualties involving a pedal cycle, compared to 60 in 2012. Of these, five resulted in the deaths of the rider.
Sgt Messenger said “Please remember that all road users have similarities, regardless of the vehicle they use. Eight out of ten cyclists own a driving licence. Both cyclists and drivers use the same roads and neither has a right of way over the other.”
“The key safety messages are simple” added Sgt Messenger. “Cyclists need to ensure they are visible and that vehicles can pass as safely as possible wherever road conditions allow. Drivers need to ensure they give cyclists sufficient space, and are patient enough to overtake only where it is safe to do so.”
He is urging all road users to be aware of the key safety messages.
Safety advice for cyclists
1. Ride positively, decisively and well clear of the kerb.
2. Look and signal to show drivers what you plan to do and make eye contact where possible so you know drivers have seen you.
3. Avoid riding up the inside of large vehicles like lorries or buses, where you might not be seen.
4. Always use lights after dark, or when visibility is poor.
5. Wear light coloured or reflective clothing during the day and reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark as this increases your visibility.
6. Wear a correctly fitted cycle helmet, which is securely fastened and conforms to current regulations.
7. Follow the Highway Code including observing ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights.
Safety advice for drivers
1. Look out for cyclists, especially when turning.
2. Make eye contact if possible so cyclists know you’ve seen them
3. Use your indicators - signal your intentions so that cyclists can react.
4. Give cyclists space – at least half a car’s width. If there isn’t sufficient space to pass, hold back. Remember that cyclists may need to manoeuvre suddenly if the road is poor; it’s windy; or if a car door is opened.
5. Always check for cyclists when you open your vehicle door.
6. Avoid driving over advanced stop lines – these allow cyclists to get to the front and increase their visibility.
7. Follow the Highway Code including ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights.
