Winter on the UK’s roads is well known as being a treacherous time for cyclists but in recent months the numbers of deaths – particularly on the roads of the capital - have been even more marked than usual. This has been enough to trigger ongoing headlines in the local and national press, as well as a safety protests by London cyclists and their supporters.
November saw some particularly shocking statistics with six cyclists killed on the capital’s roads in just two weeks. This brings the total number of cyclists killed in London in 2013 to 14 in total. While the annual figures for the country as a whole for this year have yet to be released, the total for 2012 was 122. Last year’s figure was a five year high and many are predicting that the figures for 2013 will be even higher, particularly given the recent spate of deaths in the capital.
So, what are the reasons behind this sudden increase in the numbers of cyclists dying on Britain’s roads? Well, some have put this down to simply the increase in the number of cyclists in general. With schemes such as the Boris Bikes in London and special cycling routes in towns like Manchester and Leeds, as well as a general PR push to get people off four wheels and onto two, there are just lots more bikes on the road than there used to be.
However, despite the recent shocking figures cycling is still considered to be statistically safe and the UK's National Travel Survey has historically stated that we are more likely to suffer an injury gardening than when riding a bike (although this was in 2011). If you want to make sure that you stay safe on the roads then there are some fairly easy ways to do it:
1. If you don’t feel that confident on a bike, especially if you’re going to be attempting busy streets such as those in London, then take some lessons. Cycling training is available across the country for cyclists of all levels.
2. Don’t cycle right next to the pavement and wear high visibility clothes in bad weather or at night. Both of these steps will help you be more visible to the other vehicles on the road. High visibility clothing makes cyclists stand out and if you cycle right next to the kerb then you’re much less likely to be seen so leave at least 50cm and try not to be intimidated into moving over when cars come close.
3. Stand up for yourself. This definitely does not mean be aggressive or reckless, as that is a sure fire way to get injured. However, making eye contact with drivers so that you know they have seen you, signaling boldly when you’re about to turn and holding your position at traffic lights are all perfectly acceptable – you have as much right to be there as anyone else.
If you have been injured in a cycling accident then we might be able to help. Feel free to contact one of our team for more information.