Survey shows cyclists are regularly put at risk by drivers on Scotland’s roads
Scottish drivers are unaware that overtaking too closely to cyclists can result in three penalty points, according to a survey.
73% of drivers were unaware of the consequences of not leaving at least a car’s width whilst passing bike riders, when questioned by YouGov.
Cycling Scotland commissioned the research as part of a new nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the risks faced by Scotland’s cyclists. 1,000 Scottish motorists were questioned as part of the study.
Cycling Scotland chief executive Keith Irving said: “People who cycle regularly are likely to experience a ‘very scary’ close pass incident every couple of days and cycling casualties are increasing, in line with cycling’s growing popularity.
“Every week in Scotland, at least three people cycling suffer serious, potentially life-changing injuries, usually from a collision with a vehicle.”
The national cycling body will be releasing a series of television adverts to demonstrate how it feels for cyclists when they are passed by cars not leaving enough room.
The adverts will also highlight the legal consequences of the dangerous manoeuvres.
The campaign comes as Police Scotland continues to roll out its own bike safety initiative across the country.
Operation Close Pass involves plain-clothes officers cycling whilst fitted with cameras on handlebars and the back of their bikes.
If a driver overtakes without leaving sufficient room, the officer contacts a colleague further down the road who pulls over the driver to talk to them about their conduct.
Inspector Andrew Thomson said: “Keeping all road users safe is a key priority for us and this campaign highlights that cyclists are vulnerable when being passed by vehicles too closely.”
