All bike users are saying is ‘Give Cyclists Space’

All bike users are saying is ‘Give Cyclists Space’

**In 2021, there were 131 cyclist injuries on Liverpool’s roads, with 33 riders sustaining serious injuries. As the weather warms up and more people take to their bikes, Liverpool City Council is urging road users to exercise caution. The Highway Code emphasizes the need to prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users, placing the onus on larger vehicles to ensure road safety.**

**Drivers can take five straightforward actions to make roads safer for all users:**

– **Stay Alert:** Make frequent observations and anticipate potential hazards.
– **Look for Cyclists:** Be especially mindful near junctions, roundabouts, or when overtaking.
– **Avoid Distractions:** Keep your focus on the road and stow away your phone.
– **Give Space:** When overtaking at speeds up to 30mph, leave a minimum of 1.5 meters, increasing the distance at higher speeds.
– **Use the Dutch Reach:** Open your door from the inside with the hand farthest from the handle, naturally prompting you to turn and check for cyclists or pedestrians approaching.

**Cyclists also hold a responsibility to ride safely, obey traffic signals, and allow faster vehicles to pass when it’s safe to do so. Liverpool City Council is actively promoting Bikeability classes in schools, equipping young cyclists with the skills needed to navigate roads confidently. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) funded over 15,000 Bikeability spots in 2024-25, working toward the goal of providing cycle training to 80% of Year 5/6 pupils nationally.**

**The Adult Cycle Training program by LCRCA has conducted over 100 skills and maintenance sessions, benefiting more than 1,000 individuals. Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, affirms the council’s commitment to enhancing road safety for all users, whether they are pedestrians, cyclists, or motorists. The council’s Active Travel strategy has made significant progress by encouraging more people to cycle and ensuring their safety on the city’s roads. Collaborative efforts can reduce accidents, encourage healthier travel choices, and establish a more cycle-friendly environment in the city. At its core, the message is clear – give cyclists the space they need to stay safe.**

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