AS FINE WEATHER and rising fuel prices encourage more people to take to their bikes, cyclists and drivers are being urged to take extra care to reduce fatal cycling accidents.
Eight cyclists have been killed on Irish roads this year, according to Garda figures.
Between 1998 and 2008, 144 cyclists were killed, of whom one-third were involved in a collision with a goods vehicle. Another one-third of the fatalities occurred during evening rush hour.
Mayo County Council’s Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons said that motorists need to show cyclists much more consideration while driving:
Drivers need to take special care and understand that cyclists are entitled to road space as much as any other vehicle on the road. It’s important that drivers anticipate cyclists at blind spots and to give at least 1.5m clearance when overtaking a cyclist.
He noted that it is a road traffic offence for drivers to brush against a cyclist, whether they are knocked from the bike or not.
Gibbons also encouraged cyclists to revise their road safety knowledge before taking to the road and to be aware of the safest places to position their bike while cycling in traffic.
“Cycling is a great way to save money and keep fit, but it’s important to make sure you know how to do it safely before getting on your bike,” Gibbons said.
Wearing helmets, lights and wearing bright and reflective clothing while cycling can help protect cyclists and make them more visible to other road users. All road users should know the rules of the road.
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