Road safety Week starts

This years Road safety Week started today – its theme this year is Bike Smart looking to highlight bicycle and motorcycle safety.

More than a third of people killed or seriously injured on UK roads are those traveling by bike.

Cyclists and motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users in the UK, with more than 100 riders injured every day in needless, preventable crashes. The dangers (and opportunities) posed by bicycles and motorcycles are distinct but those on two wheels are united by the urgent need to reduce their risk of death and injury on our roads.

Cycling is one of the healthiest, cheapest and most environmentally-friendly forms of transport available with the benefits to public health, congestion and the economy widely acknowledged. The number of us taking to our bicycles each year is increasing at a rapid pace and yet millions still don’t consider cycling an option. Delivering safe journeys for cyclists is a win/win, encouraging more people to cycle rather than drive, and keeping those who already do so safe.

Motorcyclists are disproportionately involved in crashes and the resulting injuries are often severe. The speeds motorcycles can travel are equal to those of cars and yet motorcycle riders do not have equal protection in the event of a crash, such as air bags or side-impact bars, exposing them to the full force of impact. Raising awareness of safe driving behaviour for riders and drivers alike, and therefore limiting motorcycle crashes, is critical to saving lives on UK roads.

If you are a cyclist or motorcyclist yourself, then please look to be as visible as possible so that you can be seen and please don’t take any unnecessary risks – safety first. Other road users should equally be aware and understand the vulnerability of bikes and be thinking – safety first

Further information on motorcycle and cycling safety can be found HERE for motorcycle safety and HERE for bicycle safety.website through the links below.