Gig-economy riders in Brighton & Hove have been receiving advice about road safety, riding legally and bike maintenance.
Road safety officers from Brighton & Hove City Council, working with Sussex Police, carried out a day of action on 11 June, talking to moped and bike riders delivering food for the city’s restaurants and takeaways.
The council wants riders to minimise the risks to themselves and others when travelling around the city and reduce incidents of illegal and anti-social riding.
Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, said: “The gig economy is really valuable to the city, helping to deliver food and groceries to our residents and supporting our restaurants, takeaways and retailers.
“But, anecdotally and through complaints we’ve received, we know there are issues with safety and anti-social riding. It’s vital riders keep themselves and others safe and businesses play their part in ensuring fair, reasonable and responsible working conditions for their delivery teams.
“By speaking and engaging with riders and retailers, we want to raise awareness of the risks and ensure people are riding safely and legally on our roads and cycle ways. They work hard in a busy and bustling city, but we want them to do so responsibly, safely and considerately.”
The action coincided with National Young Rider Day – where the focus was on all things young motorcyclists.
Brighton & Hove City Council has also been speaking with other local authorities about the work they’ve been doing with gig riders to learn about best practices and successful campaigns.
PC Steve Bucksey, motorcycle casualty reduction officer, said: “We recognise the vital service delivery riders provide in and around Brighton, and this engagement day is an opportunity for us to speak with riders and offer advice as well as listen to their perspectives.
“We aim to work collaboratively to reinforce crucial road safety messaging and address concerns around riding legally and anti-social riding.
“Our goal is for delivery riders to operate safely and responsibly in order to minimise any negative impact on residents and other road users.
“We take anti-social riding seriously, and are committed to investigating all reports as we continue to work towards improving road safety for road users, residents and visitors in the city.”
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