Cyclist Involved In Fatal Road Accident In North-East London

Residents of Woodford Green in north-east London are calling for improved road safety measures after a cyclist was killed on Sunday (February 9th).

An unnamed 52-year-old man died when he collided with a car at the junction of High Road and Forest Approach.

Although there is no suggestion this incident was caused by a speeding motorist, a number of local people told the East London and West Essex Guardian that this particular stretch of road is a notorious accident blackspot and would benefit from a lower speed limit.

Residents are keen to see the limit reduced from 30 mph to 20 mph and believe this would provide greater protection for pedestrians and cyclists.

Pat Shirley, 75, of Forest Approach was quoted as saying the road is "really dangerous" and further accidents could occur unless action is taken.

Meanwhile, 64-year-old Jeff Smith, also of Forest Approach, told the news provider: "I think the speed camera needs to move. It does not seem to flash the cars going down the hill, so they drive so fast through the junction."

This is the first recorded cycling fatality in London in 2014 and road safety organisations are keen to see a significant reduction in the number of people being killed or seriously injured while riding around the capital.

In November 2013, six cyclists were involved in fatal accidents over the space of just two weeks in the city.

This provided the catalyst for a major police crackdown on dangerous driving and irresponsible cycling across London in December and January.

Mayor Boris Johnson has outlined ambitious plans to ensure safety standards are improved.

Around £913 million has been set aside for a huge infrastructure project, which will see safer cycle routes introduced throughout the capital. The investment programme will also see substantial upgrades being made to 33 junctions - making them less threatening for cyclists.

Speaking in December 2013, Mr Johnson said: "A huge amount has already been done to make cycling safer and there's much more in the pipeline to come."

Our specialist road traffic accident lawyers have experience helping a wide number of people who have suffered injuries following a cycling accident. Visit our Cycling Accident Claims page for more information.

Expert Opinion

Yet another cyclist has lost their life in a collision with a vehicle on one of the London roads, the first death this year. We understand that there are safety measures to be implemented but it is still absolutely vital that road safety organisations, authorities in the capital and the government continue to review the road safety issues in London and across the UK and implement these safety measures as soon as possible so the roads are safe for everyone. <br/> <br/>“We see firsthand the consequences of cycling accidents and the impact that injuries sustained can have on people’s lives. We work to help them gain access to vital treatment and rehabilitation to allow them to recover as quickly as possible, but the fact remains many injuries are life changing as cyclists are more vulnerable than other road users. <br/> <br/>“We hope this recent news further cements the risks cyclists face and that Mr Johnson’s plans continue to be implemented to significantly improve the safety of cyclists throughout the UK and especially in the London area.” <br/> <br/> <br/> Stephen Nye - Partner