Organisation seeks to protect safety of cyclists in winter
Cyclists need space on either side of them to take evasive action without veering into the path of approaching motor vehicles.
Winter is here and although most people commute to work in vehicles or use public transport or taxis, there are still thousands of commuters throughout South Africans that cycle to work daily.
The Pedal Power Association’s (PPA) Stay Wider of the Rider campaign focuses on the vulnerability of cyclists on our roads and the key message of this initiative is to give cyclists space when overtaking them or to wait until you can do so safely.
“We also encourage cyclists to wear bright, reflective gear, especially in wintertime,” explained CEO of the PPA Neil Robinson.
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“Visibility is key to staying safe on the road and for this reason, the PPA, in collaboration with the RAF, will be handing out reflective bibs and lights to cyclists from Masiphumelele and Kraaifontein in Cape Town, Diepsloot and Mamelodi in Gauteng and Walmer Estate in Gqeberha in July,” said Robinson.
“Please feel free to contact us if there is a need for a reflective bib handout in your area.”
Robinson explained cyclists are vulnerable road users and should be given space of at least one meter on our roads when overtaking.
“Peak hour traffic means more potential for danger and conflict among motorists and cyclists. Both can be avoided if cyclists and motorists commit to sharing the road and being respectful of one another.
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“Cyclists need space on either side of them to take evasive action without veering into the path of approaching motor vehicles. In windy or wet conditions, motorists should give a cyclist even more space when passing.
“Potholes and loose debris pose a greater threat to cyclists on skinny wheels compared to the wider tyres of a car or bus.”
If there is a hard shoulder on the road, cyclists will use it to stay out of the roadway. If there is no shoulder, a cyclist should “claim his or her space” in the lane.
We are asking motorists to slow down when approaching a cyclist and to wait until it is safe to overtake.
The PPA appealed to cyclists who have any unwanted cycling gear at home, to please donate these to us for redistribution to cyclists in need.
“We are specifically looking for helmets and unwanted warm winter items. There are dedicated cycling shops in Cape Town as well as the Cycle Lab outlets, which collect these items on our behalf.
“Other stores include Olympic Cycles and Crown Cycles in Lansdowne Cape Town, Sage & Thyme in Somerset West and Cycles Direct in Tableview.
“In Durban, you can also drop off items at CycleSphere and in Johannesburg at Mello Vello and Jagga Cycles. Cyclists are most welcome to contact our office info@pedalpower.org.za for collection in Cape Town.”
Robinson urged motorists and cyclists to share the road and be part of the solution, not the problem.
