Pedalling a safer message for users
CYCLISTS and motorists have a shared responsibility to be safe on the roads.
One cyclist was killed and another 33 suffered injuries serious enough to be hospitalised in the Southern police region in 2017.
Statewide the figures climb to eight riders killed and 390 hurt or seriously injured.
It’s a startling figure and one police, as part of Road Safety Week, want to draw attention to with the aim of cyclists and motorists sharing the roads safety.
“What we’re seeing is clearly an increase in the number of people riding bicycles, be if for environmental, health reasons, or recreationally,” police Inspector Stephen Angus said.
“It is important that motorists are aware of bicycle riders.
“Under new legislation, (drivers) are required to give, wherever possible, one metre passing distance between a car and bicycle for purposes of safety for bike riders and motor vehicle drivers.
“In an incident of a car versus bicycle, or any vehicle, there is disproportionate weight and speed issues can combine to cause tragic loss of
‘‘ IT IS IMPORTANT THAT MOTORISTS ARE AWARE OF BICYCLE RIDERS. INSPECTOR STEPHEN ANGUS
life to bike riders, and certainly serious harm or injury.”
The State Government and Queensland Police Service yesterday launched a new program in consultation with Bicycle Queensland to improve cycling safety on the road.
The online tool will help police collect evidence and enforce Safe Passing Laws.
Insp. Angus said cyclists were legally able to ride on footpaths, and should do so if not confident on the roads where they should be vigilant to traffic.
Riders are permitted to ride two abreast but they should consider the road width and type.
“Whilst we are expected to share the road peacefully and respectfully in compliance with the road rules, the point I want to make is the rules apply equally to bike riders as well,” he said.
Police will be at Cobb and Co Museum today from 9am as part of Road Safety Week.