Rotorua Council urges cyclists to ‘Be Bright’ on their bikes

9 April 2013

Council campaign urges local cyclists to ‘Be Bright’ on their bikes

Be Bright! That’s the message for cyclists from Rotorua District Council (RDC), Rotorua Police and Bike Wise now that summer’s daylight saving has ended.

Rotorua is one of 12 cities around New Zealand focusing on reducing cycling crashes and increasing awareness of cyclist safety through the ‘Be Bright’ campaign. Cyclists will be reminded to light up their bikes and wear high-visibility clothing to help keep them safe on the road.

RDC transport safety & sustainability coordinator Niki Carling said cyclists’ visibility to other road users, especially during times of low light, is an essential part of their safety.

“Over 300 cyclists require hospitalisation each year. So now that it’s staying dark longer we’re promoting the use of lights and high visibility clothing to help reduce the risks to cyclists during low-light periods at morning and night, and in poor weather.

“People may not be aware that there is a $55 fine for infringements such as no lights on a bike, no taillights, no rear red reflector or reflector tape.”

Keen cyclist Rotorua Mayor Kevin Winters said wearing bright, reflective and high-visibility clothing, and using front and rear bike lights, were simple ways for cyclists to improve their visibility and their personal safety.

“I urge cyclists to think about what they’re wearing when out on our roads and to ensure their bikes are fitted with all the required lighting and reflective devices that will increase their chances of being clearly seen by motorists.

“Rotorua is increasingly developing a reputation as one of the country’s top cycling destinations and we want it to also be one of the safest cycling destinations in New Zealand.”

Rotorua’s ‘Be Bright’ campaign will involve checkpoints at key locations where police will educate cyclists on the appropriate reflective gear and lights. Cyclists surveyed at the checkpoints will go into a draw to win one of four Avanti high-vis product packs worth $150 each.

ENDS

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