ON two occasions within just over a year, local cyclist Adrian Bradshaw (65) has been struck down by a vehicle while cycling.
The Amanzimtoti Cycle Club member warns fellow cyclists to take extra precautions and avoid riding alone.
On 26 July 2016 and again on 2 August this year, Adrian was hit while riding on local roads.
He recalled the last incident.
“It was 11.15am and I was hit on the corner of Kingsway and Grants Road. I was riding south towards Toti CBD,” he said. “The driver stopped, climbed out of his car and tried to move me out of the centre of the road, saying he was sorry.”
Adrian walked away from that incident with a swollen hand, a scratched knee and a badly bruised right shoulder. His bicycle was damaged and had to have the handlebars, gear shifter and derailer bracket straightened.
“This is the second time I have been knocked off my bicycle in the last two years,” he said. “Although the drivers are apologetic, they are simply not aware of cyclists on the road.”
Adrian noted that the pillars of society are without a doubt collapsing at an alarming rate due to poor government management. He believes a major problem is that general policing of the roads is non-existent.
“I drive past the Kingsburgh Traffic Department on a regular basis and there are always plenty of department cars parked there,” said Adrian. “Meanwhile driving skills are deteriorating at an alarming rate – all while their cars are parked off.”
As an example, the cyclist referred to the lack of confidence he shares with many others in the use or non-compliance with traffic lights.
“You cannot trust the colour of the robot. If it’s green you first have to ensure the traffic has stopped before you proceed. Taxis are so bad at this and now I notice other motorists copy them.”
Adrian also questions the department’s judgement when passing drivers who apply for their code 10 licence.
“We are still allowing drivers to pass their car licence using a code 10 truck test. This is done to avoid reverse parking. The problem with this is that you do all driving practise in a two ton vehicle and once you have passed the code 10 licence, you can purchase a car and drive on the roads with no prior car driving experience – frightening!”
The cyclist cautions fellow cyclists to ride carefully and with other bicycle enthusiasts rather than alone, if possible.
“I think there needs to be increased awareness from both cyclists and pedestrians,” said Adrian. “Consequences for driving without due care and attention, should include prosecutions.”
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