Be bright and be seen – it could save your life. That’s the message from Hampshire police this week in their bid to reduce the number of cyclists killed on our roads.
With the clocks going back this weekend, the commute to and from work will soon be much darker, leaving cyclists far more vulnerable.
Between January 2011 and December 2015, 979 cyclists were killed or seriously injured in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Of those incidents that resulted in a cyclist being killed or seriously injured, 21 per cent happened during the morning and evening rush hours and 75 per cent occurred on 30mph roads.
Aim of the week of action is to remind cyclists about the importance of riding with lights and to ensure motorists are considerate of their fellow road users.
Officers will be offering freebies as well as advice. These will include fluorescent rucksack covers, fluorescent neck tubes and ‘get you home lights’ for those cyclists without lights.
Cyclists and motorists will also be handed a new ‘Get a Grip’ cycle safety booklet, packed with advice encouraging safer roads for everyone.
Primary schools will be getting in on the action, too, with youngsters being encouraged to wear bright clothing for their Your Time to Shine day.
Road Safety Sergeant Rob Heard said: "Cycling is a great way to keep fit and healthy. However cyclists are one of our vulnerable road users and when they are involved in a collision the injuries can be serious. As the light reduces and visibility diminishes it is always a good idea for all road users to be bright and as visible as they can."
Between sunset and sunrise it’s the law that cyclists must have front and rear lights illuminated.
They must also have a red rear reflector and – if the bike was manufactured after October 1985 – must have amber pedal reflectors.