EDITOR – The months of February and March generally see a congested road-racing calendar across the country. Many of the cyclists are busy training for these events, especially in preparation for the Cape Town Cycle Tour. With the increase in cyclists on the roads comes an increased risk of cyclists also being hit by a vehicle.
The Pedal Power Association (PPA) launched a major Safe Cycling campaign in late 2011, striving to focus attention on a safe passing distance between vehicles and cyclists. Part of this campaign means that cyclists need to know how and where we can ride our bicycles.
Rather than asking where we can ride, what about those roads that cyclists are not permitted to cycle on? These are either freeways or areas where ‘Cycling prohibited’ signs are displayed. Simply put, freeways are designated as such in terms of the National Road Traffic Act. These may have different designations (N – national, R – provincial or M – municipal) – but if the following signs are displayed anywhere, you may not cycle there.
Designated freeway cycling prohibited – you can ride on any other road where it makes sense to do so safely.
If you get hit by a vehicle when you are cycling on a road where you are not supposed to be, your chances of surviving are slim and, at best, you will probably be severely injured. You are committing a traffic offence and you could be charged.
Your insurance may not cover you or your bicycle. Considering the above, it just doesn’t seem worth the risk.
We ask that motorists respect us and the laws. As cyclists, we need to do the same. Only by riding responsibly where we are allowed to can we expect other road users to respect us. Respect the laws, respect other road users, it’s a two-way street. Live to enjoy the rides.
Read more about the Pedal Power Association and their Safe Cycling and other campaigns on www.pedalpower.org.za.
Liz Heydra
Pedal Power Association
