RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
September 15, 1998
CAMPAIGN TO STOP CYCLISTS’ DEATHS FROM LORRIES
A major initiative to reduce the number of accidents between lorries and cyclists has been launched by a working group established by the National Cycling Forum.
More than 100,000 leaflets are being distributed through road safety officers, cycling groups, safety organisations and heavy goods vehicle associations to promote better care on the road between cyclists and lorries.
The leaflet Cyclists and Lorries explains the problems that both groups face and has tips on how cyclists and lorry drivers can help each other.
Each year around 550 injury accidents occur between lorries and cyclists, resulting in 35 deaths and 130 serious injuries among cyclists. Although HGVs are involved in a very small proportion (2.5 per cent) of overall cyclist casualties, they account for more than 20 per cent of cycling deaths.
Kevin Clinton of RoSPA, who chairs the working group, said: "We are aiming to promote greater understanding between cyclists and lorry drivers. Although there are relatively few accidents between the two groups, those that do occur are often serious and, in far too many instances, fatal for the cyclists.
"Many of the accidents happen at or near junctions in built-up areas. Invariably it is the cyclist who is injured. Problems could often be avoided if cyclists and lorry drivers gave each other more room on the road. This leaflet raises awareness to help lorry drivers and cyclists recognise each other’s needs and to avoid coming into conflict."
Welcoming the initiative, Road Safety Minister, Lord Whitty, said: "All road users have a duty to behave responsibly on the road. The leaflet draws together sound advice and encourages lorry drivers and cyclists to appreciate each other’s perspective. It is a positive step to help reduce the number of collisions that occur between these two vehicle types."
The leaflet has been produced by the NCF’s Cyclists and HGVs Working Group with the help of BP. The working group is one of a number set up to realise the aims of the National Cycling Strategy. It is also looking at other issues that could help alleviate the conflict between lorries and cyclists.
[Note to broadcasters: RoSPA has its own ISDN studio]
Notes to Editors:
1. The working group members are: Association of Chief Police Officers, Association of Industrial Road Safety Officers, BRAKE, CTC, Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions, Freight Transport Association, Local Authorities Road Safety Officers Association, London Accident Prevention Council, London Boroughs Cycling Officers Group, London Cycling Campaign, London Research Centre, Road Danger Reduction Forum, Road Haulage Association and Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
2. Launched in 1996, the National Cycling Strategy provides a blueprint for the development of cycling in the UK. Targets include doubling the number of cycling journeys from 1996 levels by 2002 and again by 2012.
3. Development of the strategy is being co-ordinated by the National Cycling Forum, chaired by Glenda Jackson. The forum has representatives from central and local government, other public sector bodies, voluntary organisations and commercial interests, including the cycle industry
