Will new plans reduce cycling accidents?

Published: 20/08/2013

Britons are being encouraged to ‘get on their bikes’ following a £148million government road safety boost. However will these new plans help make roads better for cyclists?

According to a survey by Sky, the London Olympics has had a massive impact on UK cycling with more than half of the country inspired to take up the sport and retailers enjoying a significant uplift in site visits and bike sales.

Reacting to this increase, the government will now provide £77million to eight major cities in England include Manchester (£20m), West Yorkshire (£18.1m) and Birmingham (£17m) to improve road safety for cyclists by:

• Widening roads
• Improving junctions
• Filter signals.

There are also plans to introduce ‘trixie’ mirrors to make cyclists much more visible to HGV drivers.

The number of road traffic accident involving cyclists increased to 3,222 (4%) last year including a 10% increase in the number of cycling fatalities.

Kevin Smith, one of the Personal Injury Solicitors at Goldsmith Williams, comments:

“Whether the increase in cycling accidents is related to an increase in the number of cyclists on the roads following the Olympics is unclear. However what is apparent is the need for safer conditions for cyclists on our roads.

“Many people are under the illusion that you have to be in a car to be able to make a claim for a road traffic accident but the truth is road accidents come in all shapes and sizes including cycling accidents.

“With over two decades of experience, we can help all road users injured in an accident that wasn’t their fault whether you are a driver, passenger (motor), cyclists and pedestrian.”

Content correct at time of publication