Drivers & cyclists asked to look out for each other on Devon's roads

Devon County Council is supporting the Department for Transport's THINK Cyclist campaign that encourages drivers and cyclists to "look out for each other".

Cyclists and drivers share many similarities, including the fact that large numbers fall into both groups with 80 per cent of cyclists holding a driving licence and 20 per cent of drivers cycling at least once a month.

The most common contributory factor to accidents involving cyclists and drivers recorded by police officers at the accident scene is that one or both participants ‘looked but failed to see’."

Cabinet member for Highways and Transportation, Councillor Stuart Hughes says; "As a keen cyclist myself, it's really important for everyone to respect other road users and there are some simple rules which apply to both drivers and cyclists to make sure they are travelling safely. Drivers must look out for cyclists, use their indicators and give cyclists at least half a car's width when passing. Likewise cyclists should make sure they are seen, avoid riding up the inside of vehicles and where a helmet. Let's try and keep our roads safe for everyone."

Cyclists should be particularly careful at this time of year as roads can be icy, wet and slippery so it's important to asses local conditions before starting their journey.

Bright clothing and reflective strips are a good idea as well as suitable clothing to prevent getting cold and wet. Also it's important to ensure bikes are in good working order; check brakes and consider using different tyres.

Devon County Council already has a firm commitment to cycling and has invested around £13million in the county’s cycle network over the last 3 years.

The council's 'Cycling Strategy' will plan for continued investment over the next five years. Already £13.9million on cycle infrastructure is to be invested to 2015, supplemented with additional funding through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund, developer contributions and other grants.

In addition approximately  20,000 children in Devon have received Bikeability training since its launch in 2006 which  is ‘cycling proficiency’ for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads.

Councillor Hughes adds; "We feel that a good cycle network provides greater opportunities for access to employment, while also improving employees’ health and reducing congestion and demand for car parking.

Our goals are to provide a high quality, accessible cycle network, with improved facilities for cyclists. We want to inspire people to take up cycling by promoting its benefits, provide cycle training and enhance cycle safety."

Advice when you're driving 

1. Look out for cyclists, especially when turning - make eye contact if possible so they know you’ve seen them;
2. Use your indicators - signal your intentions so that cyclists can react;
3. Give cyclists space – at least half a car’s width. If there isn’t sufficient space to pass, hold back. Remember that cyclists may need to manoeuvre suddenly if the road is poor, it’s windy or if a car door is opened;
4. Always check for cyclists when you open your car door;
5. Avoid driving over advanced stop lines – these allow cyclists to get to the front and increase their visibility;
6. Follow the Highway Code including ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights

Advice when you're cycling

1. Ride positively, decisively and well clear of the kerb – look and signal to show drivers what you plan to do and make eye contact where possible so you know drivers have seen you;
2. Avoid riding up the inside of large vehicles, like lorries or buses, where you might not be seen;
3. Always use lights after dark or when visibility is poor;
4. Wearing light coloured or reflective clothing during the day and reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark increases your visibility;
5. Follow the Highway Code including observing ‘stop’ and ‘give way’ signs and traffic lights;
6. THINK! recommends wearing a correctly fitted cycle helmet, which is securely fastened and conforms to current regulations.