Safer Cycling

Be safe message for cyclists and motorcyclists

Cyclists and motorcyclists are being urged to take extra care on the roads after a spate of fatal accidents

Text Box: Since January there have been six fatal accidents in Wandsworth borough involving either cyclists or motorcyclists including ones in Putney and Roehampton. This is mirrored by a similar increasing trend across London.

While many of these accidents are still under investigation by the police and the coroner, the council has also undertaken its own investigations on the roads it controls into the possible causes of these fatal accidents.

The scene of each accident has been examined in minute detail to ascertain whether or not road conditions may have played a role. So far nothing has been found to suggest that on council controlled roads at least, poor or damaged road surfaces may have been a contributory factor.

Wandsworth's cabinet member for regeneration and transport Cllr Kathy Tracey said: "The increase in the number of these tragic accidents is a matter for deep concern and my message to people who travel on two wheels is to take extra care and if possible attend a training course.

"This is particularly important for motorcyclists, especially those who are returning to this form of transport after a break of some years. A refresher course to brush up on road safety skills could save your life."

The council organises cycle training courses for both children and adults throughout the year. There are still places available for children on courses held between now and the start of the school term, while the programme has been extended to offer training to all year six pupils who plan to cycle to their new secondary school.

The council has also explored further ways of improving motorcycle safety by developing local publicity campaigns with local motorcyclists and instructors. One of these is "Bikesafe" which features training and educational programmes from a dedicated team of police motorcyclists.

The council is also urging residents to contact the council if they encounter any road defects. This can be done online at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/streets or by filling in a simple street defects postcard, available at all borough libraries and information points.

The councilï¿½s top ten tips for cyclists and bikers

ï¿½ Take a refresher or advanced skills course
ï¿½ Anticipate what other road users might do and be alert
ï¿½ Be prepared for the unexpected, especially at junctions and roundabouts
ï¿½ Ride at a speed you can slow down or stop at, without swerving
ï¿½ Motorbikes should be ridden towards the centre of the road, not in the gutters
ï¿½ Always use lights or headlights
ï¿½ Keep your bike or motorbike well maintained
ï¿½ Never overtake on the inside
ï¿½ Take a life saving glance over your shoulder before you change direction
ï¿½ Wear bright or reflective clothing so that others canï¿½t avoid seeing you and always wear protective headgear

To find out more about local bicycle safety courses telephone 020 8871 6670 or log onto www.wandsworth.gov.uk/roadsafety.

To find out more about motorbike safety contact Elite Motorcycle Training on 07000 465 465 or log onto www.elitemotorcycletraining.com. Alternatively contact London Bikesafe on 01689 856971 or view their website at www.bikesafe-london.co.uk.

August 6, 2003

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