There has been, as we all know some high profile court
cases involving cyclists and serious injury and deaths not just to cyclists
themselves but also as a result of collisions with other road users and
pedestrians. It has in part led to the government looking afresh at the laws
around cycling. Some of our current regulation is very old.
All road users in the UK have to contend with some of the
busiest roads in the World. That in itself is a factor in the current debate.
Add in the inevitable frustrations over road use and congestion and it can lead
to accidents or actions and reactions that are unhelpful at best and downright
dangerous. Whilst recognising these and other factors it is also worth noting
that we still have one of the best road accident rates in the World. Road
deaths have seen a steady decline over many years albeit with some blips. The
trend is down and whilst that is to be welcomed we all want to see that figure
continue to fall. Cyclists, whilst there has been a huge resurgence in
popularity still represent a tiny proportion of traffic on our roads and yet
are involved in a disproportionality high number of accidents. This needs
addressing as every death or injury is a tragedy.
Part of the process in improving road safety is ensuring
that all road users show and have respect for other road users. The more
crowded it is the greater the need. There is also the vital role of taking
personal responsibility. Drivers using mobile phones are now heavily punished
to the extent that those who have passed their driving test within the last two
years lose their licence on first offence if caught using a phone. There are
seat belt laws too - a factor that has greatly aided safety. Cyclists must be
encouraged (I am reticent about legislation on this) to take their own personal
safety as a given: high viz clothing, helmets and also adherence to the high
way code.
The logic is that whilst improving provision for
cyclists with road design, cycle lanes and priority at traffic lights and more,
there must also be a clear recognition that all road users, regardless of their
chosen transport method, must take responsibility firstly for themselves and
then for others on the road. I believe government plans on legislation will
reflect that.
