Schoolchildren across the North East are urging drivers to take a second look for cyclists after new figures revealed that failing to look properly was a contributory factor in 62% of child cyclist casualties in the region.
Pupils from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Sunderland and Throston Primary School in Hartlepool are supporting a campaign led by Road Safety GB North East, alongside police and fire services, to encourage drivers to slow down and watch out for cyclists.
The campaign comes as the summer holidays get under way, with more children expected to be cycling in their local communities.
Figures covering the past five years show that 458 children were injured while cycling in road collisions across the North East, with 86 suffering serious injuries. Two children were killed.
Children accounted for around a quarter of all cyclist casualties, with 11 to 15-year-olds making up 71% of child cycling casualties.
The figures also show that 59% of cyclist casualties occurred within 20 metres of a junction.
Peter Slater, chair of Road Safety GB North East, said drivers should take extra care when approaching junctions, overtaking cyclists and opening vehicle doors.
“We’re asking all road users to slow down, stay alert and take a second look for cyclists, particularly at junctions, when overtaking, or before opening a vehicle door,” he said.
“Children should be able to cycle safely in their communities. Cyclists are among our most vulnerable road users, and by giving them space and looking properly before making a manoeuvre, drivers can help prevent avoidable collisions and keep young people safe.”
The campaign is being supported by pupils who have been learning about road safety through Bikeability training delivered by their local councils’ road safety teams.
Thousands of children across the North East take part in Bikeability each year, developing the skills and confidence needed to cycle safely.
Sergeant Glen Robson, of Northumbria Police’s Operation Dragoon team, said: “We all have a responsibility to make our roads as safe as possible, especially for those who may be more at risk such as children cycling.
“Serious or fatal collisions can destroy lives and rip families apart – and quite often they are entirely preventable.”
Group manager Steve Thomas, head of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s Prevention and Education Department, added: “We ask drivers to be especially vigilant around young cyclists, who may be less experienced and more vulnerable.
“By showing patience, respect and consideration for others, we can help prevent collisions and keep our communities safe.”
Matthew Lidster, Cleveland Fire Brigade’s road and water safety team lead, said the emergency services saw the consequences of collisions first-hand.
“By slowing down, staying alert and taking that extra second to look for cyclists, drivers can help prevent serious injuries and keep everyone safe on our roads,” he said.
Cyclists are also being encouraged to take steps to improve their visibility and safety, including wearing helmets and bright or reflective clothing.
Comment on this story