CTC Backing May Boost Cycle Numbers And Raise Safety Agenda
The cycle safety agenda may become more of a priority if Cycle To Work Day 2014 is a success - and it is being backed by riding charity CTC.On September 4th, millions of commuters will be urged to ditch their cars and ignore trains, buses or trams and get in the saddle instead.
The charity noted that 760,000 people already cycle to work regularly, but said it wants to see this number soar to a million by 2021. It is also hoping to at least double the number of riders on Cycle to Work Day.
Increased cycling numbers on working days may play a key role in raising the profile of rider safety on Britain's busy roads, which could empower lobby groups and prompt councils and central government to take more action to implement safety measures and provide more information and advice to motorists on how to drive in a way that minimises the risk to those on two wheels.
CTC is seeking to back the initiative with measures as varied as getting people to sign an online pledge to ride to work, publicising the fact that people can save cash on the cost of a new bike by buying it through the ride-to-work scheme and even getting employers to reward cyclists with a free coffee and croissant when they arrive.
The charity is also publishing its own journey planner to offer riders the chance to use the fastest routes into their local town or city.
The day has gained high-profile backing from paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, whose own ride to work from her home in the Cheshire village of Disley to Manchester, where the National Cycling Centre hosts the Great Britain team, could be done partly with a ride along the busy A6.
Dame Sarah, whose husband Barney has also won paralympic golds for Britain, has just won another gold, triumphing in the time trial at the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Championships in South Carolina.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a cycling accident, you may be able to claim compensation. See our Road Traffic Accident Claims page for more information.
Expert Opinion
Events such as Cycle To Work Day are positive in terms of reducing pollution and encouraging a more healthy lifestyle among the UK’s workforce. However, it is crucial that safety messages are a major part of the campaigns as all road users have a responsibility in this regard, particularly if the number of serious injuries and fatalities on the UK’s roads is to be reduced. <br/> <br/>“One of the key ways in which cycling’s popularity will be increased is by pushing forward with initiatives which mean people are protected from potential risks which might emerge when they’re in the saddle.” Neil Whiteley - Partner