Friday 11 November 2011

The days are rapidly getting shorter and this means danger for cyclists. Many cyclists choose not to ride out after the clocks go back for this reason but many have no choice. Accidents can sometimes occur because the cyclist is not visible enough or the motorist is not paying attention or the weather is bad or all three.

Janet Watson, legal executive at Ridley & Hall, is also a keen cyclist she is concerned that this winter there will be many casualties on the roads involving collisions with cyclists and motorists.

She says “Cyclists are so vulnerable. If a car hits a bike, the cyclist will be thrown onto the ground with great force. They have very little protective clothing and some still do not wear a cycling helmet . Cyclists do not carry insurance to cover themselves for injury during an accident, they will often lose money and be unable to work. It is very important that cyclists are seen when travelling around in the dark and at dusk or dawn when the light is poor.”

Janet Watson has  acted for several cyclists who have been injured as a result of colliding with cars who have not seen them in time. On one occasion a cyclist was travelling down the main road and a motorist came straight out of a side road. The cyclist went over the bonnet of the car, damaging his  bicycle and sustaining a broken ankle.

Another cyclist was travelling at about 25 mph around a large roundabout at twilight when a car coming off the slip road from the motorway failed to see him and ran into him. The cyclist sustained a head injury. He was not wearing a cycling helmet, but Janet successfully argued against a reduction in his damages. Both cyclists accepted damages in the region of £10,000 from the motorists’ insurers.

When cycling in the dark it is a good idea to be prepared and to make sure that you are visible to other road users.

Here are some tips:
Lights

• It is  important to have lights on your bike if you are cycling in the dark – it is surprising how many cyclists do not consider this.
• You should have a white light at the front of your bicycle and a red light at the rear, and orange at the side. Make sure that they are clean, not caked with mud and are placed where they can be seen!
• Where there are street lights you may feel that you can see clearly but motorists will find it difficult to see you if you do not have lights.
• Lights for your bike should comply with British Standard BS 6102/3
• It is a good idea to carry spare batteries and bulbs
• If you can see other vehicles using their lights, use yours!
• Remember if you are using dynamo powered lights these will go off when you stop so road users will not be able to see you. You can buy dynamos which have a backup standlight  for use when you are stopped (single blue light LED powered by a capacitor)

Reflectors

• Reflectors are also a good idea to be seen more clearly at night and poor light
• You are required by law to have a red reflector at the rear of your bicycle
• You should also have amber reflectors on your pedals
• Reflectors should meet British Standard BS6102/2
• Again make sure that reflectors are clear at all times.
• Spoke reflectors will help make your bike more visible

Clothing
• Fluorescent or bright clothing helps you to be seen during dull weather and in the dark. Red and yellow are particularly visible.
• Neon bands on arms, belt or ankles.
• Stickers can also be added for extra visibility
• Back packs can also on occasions have built in neon lights

If you have had a cycling accident contact Janet Watson at Ridley & Hall for advice. We offer free initial interviews and no win no fee agreements. Please contact Ridley & Hall at info@ridleyandhall.co.uk or call 01484 538421.