Scoop  Regional

1 June 2011

Advice for cyclists and drivers

Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) and BikeNZ have issued advice for drivers and cyclists following two crashes involving cyclists in Hamilton this afternoon, one of which was fatal.

Although the details of the crashes have not yet been released, CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan has reiterated advice to all road users about proven ways to reduce the chances of a crash.

“We know that reducing speeds is an effective road safety measure. Safer speed limits save lives.”

“It gives people more time to respond to the unexpected and avoid a crash. It also reduces the consequences if there is a crash.”

He also issued advice for both cyclists and drivers.

“We all have a responsibility to use the roads safely.”

Advice for cyclists:
* Never cycle on the left hand side of a truck, bus or car at an intersection, unless you're in a cycle lane.
* Avoid blind spots. Take up a visible position at lights: well out in front and not by the left hand kerb or close to a truck or bus.
* Wear bright, visible clothing. Use lights at night or in poor weather.

Advice for drivers:
* Look twice for cyclists, especially those coming from the left hand side.
* Give cyclists plenty of space. Allow for 1.5 metres between you and the cyclist.
* For truck and bus drivers: get the best mirror system you can, to watch for cyclists on the left-hand side.

CAN is road safety running workshops for cyclists, bus and truck drivers.

Drivers and cyclist switch seats at the workshops. The aim is to give participants a better understanding of the issues that drivers and cyclists face.

Alongside the workshops, BikeNZ is running Learn to Ride programmes to ensure that children possess the required skills to be a safe cyclist. Cycling skills training and Share the Road campaigns are CAN and BikeNZ priorities.

ENDS

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