I was talking to a very experienced cyclist the other day who said "the roads are dangerous". This struck me as quite alarming. Roads are busy. Some drivers do behave badly. However, good cycling dramatically reduces most dangers. There are a number of things cyclists should be doing:- Cycling a sensible distance away from the curb (as previously posted)
- Taking control of the lane at critical points such as approaching junctions and road narrowings
- Being aware of everything around you, especially looking behind and getting the attention of the following driver
- Planning early and telling other road users what you're about to do
- Cycling at a sensible speed - not too fast and not too slow
- Ensuring your bicycle is in good nick
This isn't rocket science but few cyclists I see out and about are doing these things. Because bikes are affordable and easy to use, we just get on them and ride. Then we whinge about other road users and complain that roads aren't safe and this leads to pressure to create cycling facilities many of which are really dangerous for cyclists. (more on that later!)
The new initiative from CTC, Safety In Numbers is a great idea. The order of the actions seems to be wrong: - Encourage safer driving
- Improve the road environment and make it more welcoming for cyclists
- Fund schemes that promote cycling positively and improve confidence
Let's concentrate on improving cyclists' skills first not last! The infrastructure's already in place to do this. There are qualified instructors throughout the UK. We have the National Standards and Bikeability. At the same time, let's crackdown on rubbish cycling! (this includes the boy racers who insist on cycling everywhere at break neck speed whatever the situation) The roads are not dangerous if we know how to cycle on them properly. So, get more people on their bikes by giving them the training that will make them more confident and safer.
No comments:
Post a Comment