The Road Safety Auth-ority (RSA) has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of road safety among cyclists.
RSA chief executive Noel Brett said: “This is an important awareness campaign for the RSA, as cyclists continue to be vulnerable on our roads.
“Over the period 1997 to 2010, 178 pedal cyclists have been killed in Ireland and a further 444 cyclists were seriously injured over the same period.”
Brett explained that the aim of the campaign is to remind cyclists “that it’s everyone’s responsibility to pay attention and stay safe on the roads.
“Simple actions such as wearing a helmet and high visibility jacket, obeying the rules of the road and anticipating what drivers may do could save your life.”
He added that drivers must also pay attention and be on guard for cyclists using the road.
“Allow plenty of space when overtaking a cyclist and always anticipate a cyclist having to make a sudden move to avoid a pothole or obstruction. It’s also important to watch out for cyclists at junctions especially when turning left.”
Brett also highlighted the importance of vulnerable road users being visible on the roads.
“More than 67 per cent of road deaths among cyclists between 1997 and 2010 occurred during daylight hours, and over one third of these cyclists were killed during the summer months,” he said.
Dusk remains a “danger period” when drivers may not see cyclists and pedestrians, he added. “So please be aware of your vulnerability on the road at all times of the day and night.
“Take responsibility for your safety and make sure that you wear a high visibility vest when cycling or walking.”
The RSA will distribute 20,000 high visibility rucksack covers to cyclists during the month of April to promote safe cycling. The authority has already handed out thousands of high-visibility jackets to cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians countrywide.
A booklet on cycle safety is available for download from the RSA website at www.rsa.ie. Cyclists can also find top tips on safer cycling at www.rulesoftheroad.ie.
