Published on: 21/11/18
The awareness week runs until Sunday with the message that more than a third of people killed or seriously injured on UK roads are those travelling by bike.
The Road Safety Week website states that 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.
It states: “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. Road Safety Week says: “Raising awareness of safe driving behaviour for riders and drivers alike, and therefore limiting motorcycle crashes, is critical to saving lives on UK roads.”
The campaign says we can all play our part in raising awareness about the importance of protecting those on bikes.
It has produced a film for smarter driving as well as a quiz and other resources. The campaign is focusing on:
- policy-makers being Bike Smart by implementing a safe systems approach, mandating lifesaving technology and prioritising cycle friendly infrastructure
- drivers being Bike Smart by looking out for those on two wheels, driving safely and slowly and giving bike riders plenty of space
- cyclists and motorcyclists being Bike Smart through safe riding behaviours and appropriate training and equipment.
Once again the Brain Injury Group is raising awareness around Road Safety Week.
The Brain Injury Hub contains a large number of real stories about children who have been involved in road traffic accidents (RTAs).
Ryan was hit by a van when he was cycling and his family went on to launch a charity to promote safer cycling The Ryan Smith Foundation.
You can read more about Ryan here – we also caught up with Ryan and his dad Mark when they were tandem cycling at the summer 2018 Superhero Tri Event.
