A record number of cyclists are taking to our roads today, due to a variety of factors which include the current economic climate, the effects of driving on the environment and heavy congestion on the nations roads.
In the capital alone, recent reports have found that more than 545,000 cycle journeys are made every single day and as a result there has been an increase of 91% of cyclists on London’s main roads over the past eight years. The boom is set to continue as people switch to using two wheels.
With the increased number of cyclists on the road, the rate of road accidents and fatalities is rising at an alarming rate. A report published by the National Audit Office has found London to be the most dangerous city for cyclists. The report also found that around 20,000 cyclists are injured every year in road accidents across the country.
Last year alone, 15 people died and a record number of cyclists were injured and what is worrying about the statistics, is that more than half of those killed on London’s roads have involved lorries. For example, take September 2008 where it was found to be one of the bloodiest months in the year.
The report found that an increasing number of deaths in London, 3 out of 4 road accidents, ended in fatality. As a result of these shocking figures, the London Mayor Borris Johnston, a keen cyclists himself, has taken the first steps to protecting the nations cyclists. He has called for cyclists to be allowed to ride through some red lights, with the aim of reducing the number of deaths. The Mayor is asserting that allowing bikes to pull away before traffic to make a left turn, will most definitely save a cyclist’s life, as the cyclist would not be in the driver’s blind spot.
What is clear from these report and statistics is that, cyclists need to be protected as a whole and motorists and cyclists need to come together to ensure cyclists are safe when they are on the roads.
It is important for simple, but key precautions, to be taken by both cyclists and drivers, for example, cyclists clothing should be bright and reflective, helmets must be worn and lights and reflectors on the bikes are a must.
Driver’s should also be alert, cautious and reduce their speed to safeguard the safety of cyclists. If drivers and cyclists have a mutual understanding, cyclists will be unharmed whilst on the roads and even more commuters will opt to using two wheels as their main mode of transport.
Cyclists injuryed in a road traffic accident may be able to claim compensation. Complete our online enquiry form or call 0800 321 3287 to discuss your circumstances.