Cycle Safety

Cyclists need to be aware of the dangers of riding near HGV Lorries. Last year 15 cyclists died on London’s roads, nine of those in collisions with a lorry.

There has been a big increase in vehicle technology which assists in saving lives but let’s all do our bit and be aware of the dangers.

There are many campaigns across the UK and especially London, one in particular is ‘Exchanging Places’ this event with heavy involvement from the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) to raise awareness of cycle safety, not only for cyclists but also drivers.

The link below is to the MPS website with a range of dates through August and September to help raise awareness these events allow people to sit in the driver’s seat of a HGV or bus to get a better understanding of what the driver can and can’t see, especially in regards to cyclists on the nearside and directly in front of the vehicle.

• MPS website: http://content.met.police.uk/Article/Exchanging-Places-Events/1400007586440/1400007586440

A YouTube video has also been launched, which features an experienced lorry driver and a regular cyclist who exchange places and discuss their thoughts. It also offers guidance and clearly demonstrates correct cycling, driving and pedestrian behaviour to ensure safer journeys and avoid collisions

• Exchanging places video: https://youtu.be/UN7mJR64tvs

It’s my job to make sure we are safe whilst we are at work buts it’s your job to get both there and home safe