Rising Dangers for UK Cyclists: Accidents, Poor Maintenance, and Illegal Behavior
In recent years, the number of pedal cyclists in the UK has seen a significant increase, driven by concerns about the environment, a desire for better fitness, and the impact of Covid-19. With this surge in cycling, substantial amounts of money have been invested to make roads more cyclist-friendly, including dedicated cycle lanes and road closures that may inconvenience certain vehicles, even emergency ones caught in traffic jams.
However, government statistics reveal a concerning trend. In 2020, there was a 41% rise in accidents involving cyclists, resulting in 141 fatalities and 4,215 serious injuries. Notably, 83% of these incidents involved male cyclists, with 56% occurring on rural roads. While 46% of the accidents involved cars, the highest proportion implicated heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).
While drivers are often held responsible, it is crucial to recognize that not all cyclists behave responsibly on the roads. They often disregard safety regulations, such as using mobile phones or eating while cycling, running red lights, weaving in and out of traffic, cycling on the wrong side of the road or on pavements, and even cycling under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Young cyclists frequently attempt daring tricks on their bicycles, imitating their Olympic heroes even on busy routes.
Furthermore, many bicycles are poorly maintained, lacking proper lighting, brakes, and tires. Moreover, a significant number of bicycles are uninsured, presenting potential challenges in the event of accidents or thefts.
One of the most alarming aspects of the situation is that few cyclists take their personal safety seriously. Many do not wear high-visibility jackets or, more importantly, helmets. This lack of protective gear becomes even more perilous during winter when visibility diminishes, icy roads become treacherous, and rural areas pose additional hazards such as farm machinery and wildlife.
Young children are particularly vulnerable, often traveling without helmets and taking unnecessary risks while commuting to school or sports events. While some areas offer training programs, there is a need for a comprehensive and easily accessible campaign to educate children about their responsibilities on the road.
In a conversation with an A&E Registrar, it was highlighted that the worst injuries they encounter result from head injuries in unprotected cyclists. This raises the question of why helmets are not mandatory for cyclists and why they are allowed on dual carriageways without some form of driving license or updated knowledge of the Highway Code.
Although cycling should be encouraged, it is vital for all road users to be aware of the potential dangers and take appropriate precautions. Over the recent Bank Holiday weekend, one driver shared a harrowing experience of encountering a speeding Range Rover overtaking a cyclist on a bend, forcing them to brake abruptly to avoid a collision. Unfortunately, such incidents are not uncommon.
Cycle theft is also a significant issue plaguing cyclists in the UK. In the 2021/22 period alone, 77,421 bicycles were stolen, with a staggering 90% of cases remaining unsolved. These thefts commonly occur in and around owners’ homes, including gardens, pathways, sheds, and garages. To prevent such incidents, owners are advised to use high-quality locks when securing their bikes in public spaces and on their own properties. Additionally, it is recommended to register bikes with Bikeregister.com, a free service utilized by every police force. There is even potential to explore the use of ‘microchipping’ bicycles, similar to how pets are tracked.
With ongoing discussions surrounding the implementation of more segregated lanes in towns and cities that could effectively ban cars, some argue that it may be time to introduce a Road Fund Tax for cyclists. This modest annual fee, perhaps around £20, could contribute to cycling infrastructure while making helmets and compliance with existing legislation mandatory for all road users, including cyclists. This would also involve obtaining some form of cycling license that demonstrates knowledge of the Highway Code.
Recent fires stemming from the improper charging of electric bikes have raised serious concerns about safety. To mitigate risks, it is recommended that e-bike conversion kits are purchased only from specialized retailers who can also install the equipment safely. Notably, a significant number of modifications are currently do-it-yourself jobs, prompting calls for appropriate regulation in this area.
In conclusion, the rising number of cyclists in the UK comes with a set of challenges that need to be addressed urgently. It is crucial for both drivers and cyclists to be aware of their responsibilities on the road and prioritize safety. Measures such as mandatory helmets, adherence to safety regulations, improved bike maintenance, and greater awareness campaigns can collectively contribute to reducing accidents and promoting a safer environment for cyclists and other road users alike.
