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Fran Harrison
I live in the country and would love to be able to ride my bike rather than have to rely on my car. My family live in Belgium where cycle routes are wide enough for safe cycling and every child has a bike, they cycle to school and every school has large bike sheds. The majority of cycle accidents that I'm aware of in Britain involve lorries, who can't see cyclists or don't have enough room to pass. We need decent cycle paths and an increased awareness. Belgian drivers respect cyclists and will automatically give way for them, we need a change in attitude. This many deaths is completely unacceptable.
It is too dangerous to cycle in and around Manchester due to heavy traffics and lots of big trucks. The lanes designated for cyclists are few and need to multiply in number.
Adam Harper
This is a fantastic idea with a great manifesto for change. My only concern is the 27,000 figures you present though may make cycling sound more dangerous than it is.
Adam Higmore-Talbot
People in politics and authority should put cycling at the top of the planning agenda. New housing developments, offices and commercial buildings should look at how people will travel to and from their home or work and include cycle lanes as part of the plan. We're fifty years behind the rest of Europe. Let's start building cycle lanes in ALL towns and cities.
adam horler
I live in Singapore, but my brother does and has commuted to work in SW London every day for the past 22 years. Thankfully, he has never had an incident, and I'd like it to stay that way. Furthermore, we would love to see major media get behind the same campaigns in Asia, so knowing what is happening in the UK is vitally important.
Adrian Hastings
I am a GP in my late fifties. For the first 25 years of my career I used a car to cycle to work and to visit patients at home. For the last 5 years I have made the same journeys by bike. I feel fitter physical and mentally. My journeys are predictable in time. At times the weather is bad but modern clothing is so good this is not a big problem. The only negative side is the need to ride as if every other vehicle was ready to push you off the road. I am fortunate as long stretches of my normal routes are cycle friendly but all have sections of narrow busy streets requiring extra care. There is no objective reason why half the people sitting in their noisy, smelly metal boxes in long stationary lines could not leave them at home and join the two wheel brigade.
Adrian Highland
I live, work and cycle in Sheffield. The cycle lanes are poorly maintained and rarely separate from mainstream traffic. The City Council have a laudable policy of making many crossings and junctions much safer for pedestrians, but the result is random sudden narrowing of the road, which pushes cyclists out into the road
adrian holland
I ride my bike to work 3 days a week,i read about this campaign last Friday evening when I was sat in A & E after someone had opened a car door on me in manchester city centre. Better cycle lanes are needed in our cities.
Alan Harbord
I have been riding my bike to work and for pleasure for over 40 years. I love the freedom and can't understand why more people don't use this simple way to get about. I try to use cycle routes and paths but too often these seem to have been designed by someone who has never been near a bike and take strange and long routes, too often you suddenly find you are deposited on a busy road and are fighting with the traffic. Like every cyclist I can tell you about car and van drivers who have gone out of their way to try to kill me. it seems ok to be able to use tons of metal to threaten someone on a bike and yes, some do it on purpose! A campaign like this can only do good, well done to the times.
Alan Hooper
I live in Southsea, Hants. I am a cyclist and a motorist. I use a crossroads in Southsea with traffic lights controlling the crossing. The main road has alternate lights where the other has not. I always travel straight across when the lights are green. Traffic coming the opposite way think they have the right of way to turn right. I have had several near misses here both with my cycle and car. Conversely I find that a number of cyclists ride around with no lights when it is dark, cross traffic lights on red, and ride on pavements and through shopping precincts.
Alex Harvey
Both cyclists and drivers use the roads in irresponsible and dangerous manners. As a cyclist and a driver I understand that educating both parties is key, and road segregation will help.
Alex Holly
I was a keen cyclist in my home town of Chester. However having lived in the larger cities of Liverpool and Manchester I don't feel safe on a bicycle now and no longer ride. I drive an ambulance fro a living a regularly see the way other drivers lack of consideration for cyclists. I would like my children to ride but there is nowhere near our house where they may do so safely.
Alexander Hall
I was knocked off my bike in September last year by a car turning right across my path without looking. I was lucky enough to land on a grass verge and the damage was limited to cuts, bruises and minor whiplash. Given the state of the bike, I'm not sure how I escaped more serious injury.
Alice Harper
I travel by bike every day from Chiswick to Bloomsbury. I am fortunate not to have had an accident yet. I often get verbal abuse by pedestrians and drivers for going about my business and trying to be safe. Every time I arrive at my destination I feel lucky to have done so.
Alice Harries
It would be great to have more bike crossings along main roads. Most cyclists use back streets if at possible but sometimes it is necessary to use main roads. It would be sensible to have more cycle crossings near the entrances to parks for example. Also, having more cycle routes in the parks themselves - a classic example if the North side of Kensington Gardens where there is no cycle path and cyclists use the Bayswater Road instead (I take a massive detour everyday just to avoid this road as cars drive very fast along it and there is no cycle lane). I have been cycling in London for 12 years - there have been improvements but we are still a long way behind some other European cities.
Alison Hogg
I cycle a 20 mile a day round trip to work. Cars overtake me far too close, they are too impatient to wait for it to be clear of cars on the other side of the road, so instead they squeeze past me dangerously close. Another great trouble I have is being beeped and shouted at by overtaking cars, telling me to use the cycle lane. The particular cycle lane is only about 0.4 miles long (and stops suddenly) and is usually cluttered with wheely bins, pedestrians, driveways for houses, cars, a junction, small children on bikes and people with dogs. As I cycle at 16-20mph along this short stretch, I think it is much safer to cycle on the road. I began to resent this horrilbe ordeal so much that I now take the longer route along country lanes to avoid the abuse. It really is upsetting and makes me so angry, because the people in cars shout at you, thinking they know best, and I have no chance to voice my own opinion or give explanations because they're off and away! I am a driver and a cyclist so I have good experience with both. I'm kind to cyclists in my car because I know how horrible and scary bad drives can be when you're on a bike. I think safety could be improved by educating drivers and cyclists on their rights on the road. Drivers should be made aware when to give way to cyclists and be taught to be less dangerous towards them!!
Allan Hansford
Motor vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians should have separate facilities to ensure safety. I have cycled for most of my 72yrs and continue to do so even though the volume of traffic has expanded so much. Growing availablity of cycle paths has helped, but is too disjointed. My most recent incident was with a white van (as usual,in a hurry)when using a local, semi-rural, winding, lane with banks on either side. The van attempted to overtake me when approaching a bend only to find a car suddenly appear from the other direction. Luckily no one was hurt and no damage was done, just. Would the van driver have chosen me or the car to knock into if an accident had been unavoidanble?
Amy Hayes
September last year I cycled London to Paris for the Royal British Legion. We cycled for one day in England and France for three and the only 'road abuse' I encountered was in England. I feel it is non-cyclists that need to be targetted and they could learn a lot from the French. Just a bit of tolerance and patience of others on the road.
Amy Holleworth
I lived n Holland for 4 years and I always felt save riding my bike everyday. Since moving to London I am scared to ride my bike as we are forced to be on the same roasd as the mad drivers yet we are shouted at by pedestrians if we cycle on the path (whcih in some places is supposed to be shared by both cyclists and pedestrians) so I fel I can't win!
Andrew Hallsworth
I am an avid cyclist and motorcyclist commuter from Nottingham and travel 16 miles a day to work each day. I have had no incidents whatsoever on my motorbike, however when on my cycle I have had bottles thrown at me, subject to countless road rage incidents, been knocked off my cycle twice and been chased by two groups of youths. I am a law abiding tax payer who cycles safely and I plead that the roads be made safer for cyclists.
Andrew Harmsworth
I cycle to and from Cambridge daily, a round trip of 15 miles. Having had cancer last year - in my right thigh - I've had to rebuild my right leg. Unfortunately the County Council, who are responsible for the roads in Cambridge, don't seem to care about rebuilding roads. Potholes grow and spread - like cancer - so that it's impossible to avoid them. This shakes my bike to pieces. I've lost 3 lights and a pump this year.
andrew hayes
Drivers need to be informed / instructed on why they shouldnt drive in cycle lanes, park in cycles and to be made aware either through tv adverts, DVLA correspondance or leaflet drops on how to treat cyclists on the road. Give cyclists road space, even give cyclist right of way at junctions.
Andrew Heywood
Please, motorists, show respect and courtesy to other road users. Give cyclists extra space when you pass, don't force us into the gutter and be patient. The next red traffic light is just along the road. It's cowardly to intimidate a cyclist when you are enclosed in a metal box. Constantly having to brake and accelerate on a bike is tiring (we can't just turn a throttle), so give way to cyclists; don't force them to have to stop suddenly to avoid you.
andrew hill
I commute from Balham to Shoreditch. I also enjoy cycling around the Surrey country lanes. If there was one thing I would suggest... the police/AA/DVLA should do more at getting across the point of the advanced stop line (bike box), and the importance of leaving it clear for cyclists. A lot of motorists don't understand why it's there. Cyclists should also understand that if they feel they can't make it safely to one of these boxes during a stop in traffic, they should stay in the flow of traffic. Otherwise they end up undertaking cars on the left then getting pinned on the left-hand side of traffic at junctions.
andrew hill
Every day near Warrington I will have to tolerate abuse from motorists or the unnerving side swipe near miss. I should never feel threatened just from riding my bike. I tried to contact my local MP David Mowat but he couldn't be bothered to answer my many e-mails and phone calls. My idea is to educate drivers through adverts and the introduction of bike riding as part of the driving test.
Andrew Hole
Having had a few close encounters whilst out on the road bike I feel our roads could be made safer, but the main thing that needs changing is drivers attitudes and awareness. Driving lessons/theory need to put more focus on checking the mirrors, all round observation, and considering other road users.
Andy Heath
Commute to work each morning through the busy centre of Stoke on Trent, on an 11 mile route i get to use roughly 1/2 a mile of cycle lane, for the other 10 1/2 miles i compete with lorries and white vans for the guttering of the road. Following the recent frosts i have also noticed the number of pot holes, i understand its winter and pot holes are going to add a jolt to my journey but i would like to think in a months time these might be patched up, however my confidence in this happening is low.
Andy Heels
I have contacted my local council asking for information on how they plan to improve cycling in Leeds and while they do have plans to improve the cycle network they say they just don't have the budget to implement it. My route takes me on a ring road where cars/vans go at 60mph, 99% of drivers are great and give me space but the 1% just come too close when overtaking. I have been clipped by wing mirrors several times and dread the day I do get hit. However I have seen cyclists going through red lights and cutting junctions so education on both sides is needed.
Andy Heggs
I commute daily (5 miles) from the outskirts to the centre of Manchester. The majority of drivers, and indeed the majority of cyclists are considerate of each other's mode of transport. This is not a case of finger pointing, both cyclists and drivers need to be educated. There are of course a small number who are intolerant and ignorant of the others chosen mode of transport. Only by a mutual respect and understanding of each other can the situation be improved. Additionally Manchester, like most other UK cities I suspect, is WOEFULLY poor in terms of it's cycling infrastructure. There is so much that could be done, with relatively little financial and material impact which could improve the situation.
Andy Hughes
I tend to cycle in the country rather than the city. I have been brought down by inconsiderate farmers leaving inches of mud on the road. On the whole, the drivers around the Somerset seaside town where I live are very considerate. When the roads are quiet in the early morning they exceed the 30mph limit, some times by double. I am very aware around junctions and am always ready to take avoiding action. There are a few inconsiderate drivers that seem to take delight in using me for target practice but they are rare. In drive around Bristol I consider some of the cyclists very arrogant, jumping red lights and cutting in front of cars. They risk their lives, and they give cyclists a bad name. I like the approach to this article, about co-existence on the roads. I hope Mary makes as good a recovery as possible.
Andy Hutton
I cycle in SE London 100 miles a week. I have had no problems so far. More money needs to be spent on cycle lanes that go directly from A-B. I always leave the junction just before the green light due to it being much safer. In berlin they have bike traffic lights so the cyclists go before the cars. Due to this no cyclists jump red lights, the drivers can see them and they are out of danger before the cars move. Why can't we have the same? We need to make it easier, quicker and cheaper to go by bike. Also the Tory gov sticking a £250 tax bill on the final purchase of a cycle to work bike doesn't help.
Andy Huxtable
I regularly walk to the top of my road on the way to work in the morning only to have to try and avoid around 5 cyclists riding their bikes on the path. As far as i am aware pedestians walk on the pathway not the road & cars, motorbikes and cyclists should be on the road. I like the idea of getting places by cycling - it's free, healthy and quicker than public transport - but it really annoys me that I'm at risk of being run over on the road AND on the pathways.
Angela Hilton
I commute from Prestwich to Manchester University on a regular basis. It is rare that a day/commute goes by without a near miss. I do my part, lights on me, my bike and my bag. I stop at red lights. I take care at junctions I know to be dangerous....but there is nothing you can do when someone steps out into the road in front of you....turns left without indicating....when a car swerves into the cycle lane...someone opens a car door into you....drive too close to you...beeps at you! (why do that to a cyclists??)...
Angus Hetherington
I travel by bike from east finchley to embankment. The a1 is particularly bad. All I want is a little more space from passing cars and lorries!
angus hewlett
I'd like to see the Health & Safety At Work act applied to all for-profit vehicle operators & road network operators in a similar way to how it works in other workplaces. It's thanks to duty-of-care & strict liability laws that industrial accidents, commonplace 60 years ago, are now so rare that fatalities are often national news. Time to apply the same thinking to the roads!
Anna Harte
More clearly designated cycle paths are needed as it is not always obvious when and where they begin. Also, i think cyclists need to be encouraged more to wear HI-vis jackets, always have lights when cycling at night and just be as visible as possible,otherwise you can hardly blame vehicles for not seeing them as even in daylight it is difficult.
Ara Howell
I have noticed that traffic is more tolerant of bikes in London, and that using hand signals helps that. But one disappointing incident with a black cab when stuck behind a bus at lights at Eastcheap. He shunts my back wheel, when I am a standstill. It appeared to be ill-natured and intended, which I think is dangerous for cyclists. I always use cycle routes that circumnavigate Elephant and castle (some lovely quiet back streets there) and choose Southwark over Blackfriars Bridge.
Audrey Hayter
I love to ride my bike but often ride off road as I live in a village and country roads are just as dangerous as towns. Cars overtake you when traffic is approaching and do not give you enough room when they pass. Have had lots of near misses.
Audrey Hughes
In over 60 years of reasonably safe cycling, I think I have never felt so unsafe as now, what with potholes, huge lorries and inconsiderate motorists, I' m surprised my children allow me out!
Barry Hankin
Experienced CPS not taking up case when partner knocked off bike as she did not 'break anything'. This sort of statistic goes unreported.20 mph limit would make urban roads safer.
Ben Hawley
I do a lot of cycling around Leeds and Wakefield, West Yorkshire. Issues are the lack of cycle lanes and general poor condition of the roads. Money seems to be going into cities that are already cycle-friendly eg York, Bristol, Cambridge.
Ben Hodge
I have nearly been hit by a number of drivers on London's
Ben Hogan
I cycle over 50 miles a day - cycling is so much fun, keeps me fit (body & mind) and is often faster than travelling by car. I wouldnt want to over play how dangerous it is, as I expect this will put people off cycling. But, England has really badly designed roads for cyclists and we lack the culture or respect for cyclists. I think it goes back years and years - mass cycling events were banned in this country, so we never had the history and understanding that France, Italy and the rest of Europe have. Think this is changing but I'm afraid that we have a lot of catching up to do before we get their wheel.
Ben Hughes
I cycle from Peckham to the City every day and I fully support the need for improved safety for cyclists in our cities. This means road improvements and increasing awareness about cyclists among other users. It also means that us cyclists must be aware of and obey traffic laws. We cannot weaken our position by allowing car drivers to argue that we bring accidents on ourselves by cycling dangerously and illegally.
Bernard Hall
The principal problem about retelling cycling stories and the perpetual daily dangers I encounter as a cyclist is "where do I begin and where do I end?" -there are so many, and too many to tell. You can safely say, each week has its really dangerous moment, and in bad weeks, it's each day. I've been a cyclist all my life and am now 67 - I love cycling and respect the epic sport it generates - I commute regularly from Gosport to Southampton. Last year (2011) was full of the normal crop of incidents involving driver incompetence and systematic indifference to my personal safety, along with occasional bouts of direct intimidation. But the low point was reached in August when I was knocked down by a foreign driver and hospitalised in broad daylight on dry roads. The only saving grace to that particular misfortune was my comprehensive cycling insurance, a continuation from previously racing where it is compulsory. Comprehensive insurance has always provided me with a sense of re-assurance out on the road and on 2 earlier previous occasions has provided me with excellent representation and ultimate financial compensation. It costs about £1 per week for non-competitive full cover and I really recommend it. In my view all cyclists should have its protection along with the deterrent effect it would bring to bear on motorists as a whole. PS: This is not a vendetta against the internal combustion engine; I also love my car and motorcycle, but the pleasures, pains and accomplishment of cycling put it in a class of its own. Bernard Hall
bernardo hartogs
hello, i cycle everyday to my office in London and i feel quite safe maybe because iam from Brasil and there is impossible to ride a bike...but i agree and iam very proud to be part of this campaign as trucks and buses are very very dangerous to cyclists and black and mini cabs/ all the best bernardo
Beth Horwood
I wholeheartedly support this campaign to make Britain safer for cyclists. I am a family friend of Brian Dorling, who was sadly killed in October on the Bow Roundabout on his way to work. It's time for the the ministers, mayors and local authorities to step up and make a change.
Bethan Harris
I learnt to cycle in rural North Wales, then moved to London and then Reading where I have always travelled by bike. I'm lucky to have never been hurt, but I've seen and been involved in too many incidents to count: people opening cars doors, lorries forcing me into other lanes, cars turning left with no warning, cars pulling out with no warning and all manner of vehicles coming way too close for comfort. In London, pedestrians are also a huge problem. When I've cycled there I have to ring my bell and shout at people about to step out in front of me almost every day. Eventually I did hit one guy who just walked out into the road from a crowd of people, luckily we were both fine, but really shaken up. Can it be a requirement that each cycling commissioner must also be a longstanding commuter cyclist? When you're on the roads it's so blindingly obvious that the provision for cyclists is awful, I can only assume that the rules are written by people who don't actually use a bike. I also wonder if it's possible to have an informed debate about the lights-jumping issue? Is it wrong to get away from the cars for a bit by going through a red at an empty pedestrian crossing? I've done it and not done it. And it doesn't seem that bad to me...
Bill Holding
The daily commute in London for a cyclist is one, which even for an experienced cyclist is full of hazards. Pedestrians often just step into the road, or dash out from in front of stationary traffic, right across the cycle lanes without looking. Car doors are opened into the path of a cyclist without a second thought, resulting in either a collision or dangerous evasive action. Bus drivers often couldn't care less, overtaking and then suddenly pulling across the cyclist's path into a bus stop, when it would have been easier and safer to just slow down and pull in behind. As for some lorry and van drivers, they are a law unto themselves. Such is their hatred for cyclists, I am surprised that they don't have World War 2 style stencils of cycles on their door to signify how many they have taken out. Now I know what all the non-cyclists will be saying, "oh you should see the way they ride, ignoring all the road laws and running red lights". Yes there are some terrible cyclists out there, just as there are terrible drivers, but that doesn't mean that every single one of them should be persecuted as a result. It's the same mentality as racism and there is no justification for it. I would also suggest that all of those sticklers for the Highway Code actually get off their arses and try riding a bike through rush hour in London, because if they do they will realise that firstly there are plenty of drivers who take little notice of road laws, and secondly that the laws are sorely out of date where cycle safety is concerned. So when you see a cyclist running a red light it can often be because experience has told them that at some junctions it can be safer to do so if it is clear. Militant cyclists who act like they own the road irrespective of whose right of way it is, anger me like they would everybody else, and there is simply no excuse for their behaviour. I would however point out that if you are cycling a bike and you reach a pedestrian crossing where the lights have turned red, but the waiting pedestrian has long since gone, human evolution means that it goes against everything you understand, to stop and wait for nothing, especially when building up your speed again isn't just a case of pressing an accelerator pedal with your right foot. You don't need a driving licence to ride a bike (although for many it would help), and it isn't anywhere near as dangerous as motor powers vehicles, so for ALL the road laws to be the same for all vehicles doesn't make sense. There needs to be a more rational and common sense attitude to how cyclists use the roads, and that is from all points of view. Clearly the death and accident rate underlines this.
Bob Hodgson
I cycled a lot in London as a student in the 1960s and had a couple of near misses and I suspect it is probably more dangerous now
Bob Howard
I have twice been knocked off my bike at the same junction near where I live by motorists who claimed they didnt see me.I have problems with my back as a result and now drive to a quieter spot to start my rides.
Brigitte Hickman
I cycle in Witney, Oxfordshire, mostly but as I have no car my bike is my way of getting around all over the country. There's nothing like being in the open air. I love to cycle This is spoilt by the conditions I am forced to use day after day, the impatience other road users have with me and the abuse I suffer regularly because I am deemed to be in someone's way. The current system we have serves no one well be it motorised vehicles, bicycles or pedestrians.
Bryan Harkness
I do 30 miles a day commuting to and from work, mainly country roads. Despite previous campaigns, motorists still need to afford us (cyclists) the room of a small car and not assume we can remain within an inch of the edge of the road. It's all about respect!
calvin healy
in my experience cycling in cities can be a hazardous ordeal. the majority of drivers are considerate although not always patient but the minority (and be it taxi drivers, bus drivers, lorry drivers, as well as the general public) display dangerous contempt for cyclists. they have no awareness, no sense of the danger their actions put you in. they will almost drive you off the road just to get in front and get by. the worst cases can be when descending downhill in a 30mph zone and you yourself are clocking speeds of 25mph they will persist in speeding past you at well in excess of the speed limit gesticulating as they do. they will literally force you so close to parked cars in which you are deliberately giving a wide berth anyway in case a car door opens which would knock you off (and more than likely into their speeding path). it is lunacy not to appreciate that they are driving a 1 ton missile at a poorly protected human being. there must be more in the way of education to drivers about other road users full stop. an interesting feature i come across is that countryside drivers are by far and away more patient and considered and respectful. and in france on another level again in my experience.
Cara hooper
As a child I was knocked off my bike twice. Once by a red light jumper and once by someone not looking at a junction. Luckily only slightly bruised and shaken. A friend and neighbour was on a ventilator for a week and has had 2 operations to save his leg since being mown down by a speeding out of control motorbike. He and his family have a long recovery journey ahead.
Carole Hiley
I cycle fairly rarely on the streets as I find it intimidating, even out here in the SW suburbs. I fear for my children and their friends who do cycle in central London. There has already been one fatality of a friend's son.
Caroline Hall
In a year of commuting knocked off three times! Lucky not to be seriously injured.
Caroline Hodge
I cycle in to work in central London most days, with half my commute along the Barclays superhighway between Tooting and Stockwell. In my view the superhighway is good for providing a clearly signed route into town for cycles (as most of the other cycle routes are indirect, poorly signposted and easy to lose yourself on), and for reminding drivers to look out for cyclists. I don't feel that it improves safety for cyclists though. Even during peak times cars park there, trucks use it as a loading zone, and having to regularly merge in and out of higher-speed stop-go traffic feels more dangerous than if i were to ride in left of the lane, as then at least I can consistently be seen and other vehicles know I am there and can judge my speed better. I find that I often pass the same cars and trucks all the way in, one day i passed and re-passed the same scaffolding truck all the way from Balham to Chancery Lane. It is for this reason that I support the 20mph zones: in my experience it would have very little effect on overall journey times at peak hour, and in avoiding accidents and limiting their seriousness when they do happen, would reduce delays overall. I am a careful and law-abiding cyclist, in 18 months commuting from Tooting I have been hit once, by a learner scooter driver who didn't check the bus lane before turning right through a line of cars directly into my path. I went over the scooter but was not injured, but it does make you see how easy it is for accidents to happen, had i been on a motorcycle it would have been more serious for both of us. I also live just off a busy high street and crossing that road on foot or to turn right on my bike is very dangerous. Despite it being a popular shopping street and a busy pedestrian area there are crossings only every 5 blocks or so, and drivers regularly speed between the lights in both directions. I have seen elderly ladies stuck in the middle of the road while drivers rush past them to the next red light where they will have to stop anyway, and it upsets me: would those drivers like their elderly mothers treated like that? I think slower speeds in heavily pedestrianised areas would help this situation too, after all we are all pedestrians when we get out of the car. Thank you for taking on the issue of road safety, it is brilliant that a big newspaper like yourselves are getting onboard with a campaign like this, for too long this has been seen as not being a main-stream issue. Finally, best wishes to Mary Bowers and all her friends and family, I wish her a speedy and full recovery, and sincerely hope that the long-term effects of that accident are as few and as minor as is possible.
cathy hall
I was almost knocked off my bike coming back from dropping my children off at school. I had my 2 year old on the bike and somebody came speeding up behind me. They then overtook me into the path of an oncoming vehicle and had to swerve into me. As I'd seen the oncoming car and heard the car speeding up behind me, I'd fortunately braked but the back of the mini was about 3 or 4 inches from my front tyre. I reported them to the police and they did speak to them. So it is worth reporting reckless drivers. Unfortunately I can't bring myself to cycle along that stretch of road any more.
Cathy Heffernan
Just today a bus driver nearly hit my handlebars in his haste to overtake me – even though there was a traffic queue just metres ahead
Charles Hobbs
I own a bike shop, and our mechanic was killed by a teenager who had been speeding on the same stretch of road a month or two earlier. If you pass your test and get points within a year or two, you should retest. This would have saved Rob's life. I am cycle evangelist, but I won't let my own children ride on public roads... they are ghettoised to parks and woods.
Charles Howting
Leaving Paris on the return leg of the annual Paris to Hayling bike ride many years ago we approached the Arc de Triomphe with some trepidation. To our surprise the traffic parted like the Red Sea before Moses and the eighty or so cyclists made not one but two circuits of the frantic six-lane roundabout with ease - the French obviously welcome and accommodate their cyclists! On all other roads we were treated with respect and patience too, another thing they do a lot better than us Brits!
Charlie Hammon
I cover many thousands of miles by bike on Britain's roads every year, both as a daily commuter in London, and in training as British Duathlon Champion for my age group. While much of the focus of your campaign has been on the dangers faced by cyclists on London's streets, the perils we face on open roads out of town are far more significant, where higher speeds and a lack of regard for or understanding of cyclists create a lethal combination. The severity of the problem is highlighted by the role call of Britain's national champions and top cyclists killed on our roads in recent years, Zak Carr and Jason MacIntyre to name but two. If British roads aren't safe for our very best cyclists, what hope is there for the rest of us?
Charlie Holland
Looking forward to the day when teenagers visiting central London choose to do so by bike, and their parents are happy to let them.
Charlotte Houghton
I cycle to work every day, my biggest danger is pedestrians stepping out into the road without looking (particularly when it's raining!!!) and forcing me into the path of traffic if I don't want to be knocked off. This is also a massive problem on the 2 way cycle lanes through Soho, i've seen many a collision and I only use them once a week.
Chris Harding
At last a major publication is behind a call for safer cycling in our cities. For so long, cycling as a commuting option has been viewed as a dangerous pursuit, mostly because of ignorant and misinformed drivers with Governments happily turning a blind eye to the needs of cyclists, despite their growing popularity. I wholeheartedly support this campaign and pray that it succeeds so that my children and I can feel safe to cycle wherever we'd like.
chris harris
I used to cycle daily from Paddington to Westminster for over 3 years. A very effective means of transport(13mins) and enjoyable (across Hyde Park). However 2 near misses during that period. An unexpected rear door opening just as I was passing a parked car. Swerved to avoid but driver behind me had to swerve accordingly. Secondly pulled up alongside an articulated lorry at traffic lights. No signal from lorry as the lights changed. He proceeded to turn left and I became trapped between him and the pavement. Ended up by having to rapidly yank myself up on to the pavement to escape being knocked off etc. I am sure the driver was oblivious to my presence! I regard myself as being very traffic and danger aware cyclist with 50+ years cycling experience. Chris Harris
Chris Harris
Thanks you. From a keen cyclist who worries what might happen everytime he goes out for a ride.
Chris Harrison
I cycle over 20 miles most days commuting through London. What infrastructure only serves to reinforce that cycling provision is an after thought, given only to impress that 'something has been done' - cycle lanes that disappear just before critical junctions, lanes that are 6 feet long, the ubiquitous "cyclists dismount" signs that replace any thoughtful facilities. My 12 mile cycle to work involves me going through over 50 (fifty) sets of traffic lights; little wonder that some cyclists consider going through red lights as something that isn't serious. Why should I obey signals built for cars when the roads aren't built for bikes?
Chris Hendrie
Having lived in London for 15 years, I've used most forms of transport to get around - public, motorcycle, car and bicycle. The only time I've felt in danger is while cycling; indeed, my only injury came as a result of colliding with a pedestrian who'd decided to cross six lanes of traffic without looking before stepping in to the road, nor using the crossing just yards along the street. Result: a smashed collarbone for me, time in hospital and many further visits, and a burst face for he, who didn't even speak to me as I lay in the road in pain, trying to get to my phone to call an ambulance. Almost a year has passed and I've yet to fully recover. In my experience, the non-looking, oblivious-to-risk pedestrian is the cyclist's worst enemy, with motorists a close second. Having said that, everyone using the streets has to look out for everyone else - collective responsibility. I fear this may be a near-impossible message to hammer home, particularly in London.
Chris Herbert
I regularly commute by bike from Earlsfield to Victoria, utilising the 'Cycle Superhighway' for much of the journey. Considering this is supposed to be a part of our cycling infrastructure and a safe route, it's shocking how unsafe the road feels. The route crosses a very large roundabout in an unsatisfactory manner. Cyclists are forced to either cycle along the pavement and fight lights, before cycling through a park where the route is too narrow for both cyclists and pedestrians, or they must fight a multi-lane roundabout. Much of the route then passes through areas where cars are free to park over the cycle lane, requiring cyclists to pull out into fast moving traffic. When the cycle lane is actually clear, it's usually full of people on scooters who have hopped in to beat the traffic - snarling up cyclists instead. Finally, every single advanced stopping box at junctions in London is disregarded by scooters, taxis and drivers who seemingly don't understand the large painting of a bicycle in the box. It makes it very hard for cyclists to safely stop at lights - if not for fear of being caught alongside an HGV or bus because a scooter is in the box, blocking you from advancing to a safe position. I categorically refuse to RLJ [red light jump] because it's generally incredibly dangerous, but I frequently have to position myself much nearer the moving traffic than I would like, to ensure I won't get snarled up when the light goes green (not to mention getting caught behind a scooter and having to breathe their exhaust while you wait for the light). Sometimes when you tot these problems up and throw in angry and rushing drivers who pull out at dangerous moments, overtake leaving under 3m of clearance and then cite the non-existent 'road tax' ... you wonder why you cycle at all.
Chris Hesketh
The streets would be safer if all cars were fitted with GPS devices that limit the speed of the vehicle to the speed limit. Not only do slower speeds mean less deaths, the removal of the racing mindset would change motorists attitudes. The technology is there! Insurance companies have a more advanced version that records the quality of the driving. If that were to become standard then we'd really have safe streets.
Chris Hill
I hope you are talking to Scottish Government + cities. NOT Highways Agency here. Scottish Government has ambitious cycling journey targets, but is cutting money for Active Travel - http://citycyclingedinburgh.info/bbpress/topic.php?id=4718&page=6#post-54003
Chris Hinitt
I cycle into work every day, 90% is on unlit and rural lanes, the most dangerous bit however is the the 10% through the roads of the town I work in. The general problem is the inattention of drivers who pull out, move over or simply don't see the cyclist. Although the education of drivers is important, there should be equal emphasis on cyclists having the correct equipment and road craft. Too many cyclists also ride irresponsibly and with no lights/high vis. I ride defensively which is the only reason I have yet to be knocked off.
Chris Hogan
Fortunately on my daily route (Wimbledon to Central London) I don't encounter lorries turning left very often, but I acknowledge they are a major hazard. My particular gripe is with mini- roundabout. I appreciate that motorists prefer them as compared to junctions because they keep the traffic flowing. But that is also the problem from a cyclist's perspective. They can be quite hard to spot; in fact, drivers often don't see them at all. Or, if they do see them, they don't properly check the traffic before entering the roundabout because they arrive at the roundabout without preparing to stop. As a cyclist crossing a stream of traffic on a mini roundabout you are very vulnerable, particularly where cars are joining the roundabout while you are already on it. I have had a number of close scrapes with motorists who have driven straight in front of me while I was a crossing a mini-rounabout, entirely oblivious of me and the roundabout. Generally I would like replace mini-roundabouts with road junctions except in locations the roundabout's existence won't be missed or, failing that, try to make the existence of the roundabout more obvious than a circular shaped splash of paint in the road (eg speed bumps on entering the roadabout and raising the level of centre of the roadabout so that a car can't drive straight over the middle of it without noticing it)
Chris Hogg
Not just cities - bikes are an excellent way to get around in rural areas. And bring in tourism ££££s
Chris Hogg
This is a brilliant campaign. I am impressed that the Times is taking such a subject on. I wholeheartedly support it. BUT - why just cities? Include suburban areas, rural areas too. Point 1, particularly, would be much more workable if just applied across the whole country. Please reconsider your limitation to cities. Cycling in rural areas is vital - in suburban areas it gives mobility to those without cars, for example to the young unemployed.
Chris Holmes
I travel to work every day on a bike, fortunately on relatively quiet town roads and not too far. However, most days I witness some form of dangerous or annoying driving - overtaking too close, pulling out in front from side roads, pulling out ALONGSIDE giving the feeling of a likely collision, overtaking and only 100 yards further down the road joining the back of a queue of traffic and not leaving enough room for cyclists to pass on the nearside. Most annoying is the habit of cars to sit in cycle lanes while they wait for queues of cars in front to turn right meaning nobody can go anywhere!
Chris Hopkins
I try to cycle in London, but unless I'm on particular routes (like cycle superhighways, although even then you get cut up) it's not worth the risk and stress so I end up on public transport much more than I would like. The roads are full of potholes and there are just too many idiots on the road. I drive as well, and hate seeing vehicles up a cyclists bum the whole time.
Chris Howe-Jones
Apart from the usual abuse and threatening driving from cars, buses, taxis and trucks, I have been knocked off my bike in broad daylight & good conditions. My experiences lead me to think we need a two pronged approach to educate drivers that cyclists have an inherent right to be on the road and to foster and encourage cycling to increase the weight of numbers of cyclists on the roads. The more drivers who ride or know people who ride the more aware they will be of the vulnerabilities of cyclists.
chris Hunt
I cycle to work from Sunbury to Teddington in Middlesex. I cycle along the A308 in Hampton, Thames Street. Here the road narrows between old cottages. the road is a feeder for the M3 and heavy articulate lorries frequently use it. the road is slightly curved, and all vehicles virtually touch the curb in places. Having been nearly knocked off my bike, more than once, it is very dangerous. Protection of cyclist in this area would be fantastic.
Chris Hurst
I'd just like to say hi to all the drivers who think 2 inches or less is a safe distance when overtaking cyclists. You've been so close to me I feel like I know you.
Christine Hamilton
I have stopped commuting by bike after having been knocked off twice by cars that overtook me in broad daylight and then slowed and turned left into me. When out leisure riding at weekends I have been passed by cars so close to me that the wing mirror has brushed my arm. Drivers either don't know how much room they leave or more accurately don't leave, or they just don't care
christine humphreys
Designated cycling lanes going the wrong way down one way streets are dangerous. It need not take years and years, or numerous studies, to redesign dangerous junctions - just ask cyclists who use the area regularly and make the changes - NOW. Railings separating roads from pavements are bad. They encourage vehicles to go faster. More to say but no time.
Christopher Hicks
Cardiff is a pretty flat city, ideal for cyclists but Unfortunatly the state of the cycle lanes are poor. Most have pot holes and are poorly marked out. We need to educate drivers too as it always seems as us vs them
Christopher Hughes
the half splitting of pavements between pedestrians and cyclists is pointless. I avoid them always as the up and down of the entrances to drives etc ruins rhythm. Solutions to safe cycle areas should not be half-baked attempts.
Christopher Hughes
I am a 20-year-old student, born and raised in London. I have cycled up and down the country since the age of 14. In 2010, I was run over in a hit and run incident. And I have had genuinely too many near-misses to count. Cyclists are on the receiving end of far too much aggression and reckless driving. It is time for laws to be introduced to make our roads safer. I realise it is a minority of drivers, just as it is a minority of cyclist who ignore red lights and zebra crossings. Drivers and cyclists alike need to be properly educated on road safety and rules. If personal identification is needed for cyclists, then so be it. Perhaps drivers will realise cyclists are people, not just obstacles.
Claire Harris
I both drive and cycle in London, but never cycle at night - it is so hard to see cyclists coming on the inside unless they are wearing fluorescent jackets. My ex cycled before he passed his driving test and was totally oblivious to the dangers of going between a bus and a lorry, which changed once he drove himself.
Claire Hayward
I got knocked off my bike by a van on a roundabout in Aberdeen. I had right of way, he 'just' didn't see me. Thankfully nothing broken, but i still stuggle with a dodgy back as a consequence, 5 years on.
Claire Hickey
We should always protect the most vulnerable in society. When it comes to road users, this law should also apply instinctively. If you are driving a lorry or car then it is your duty to look out for those more vulnerable around you i.e. cyclists and pedestrians. Cycling proficiency should be part of the driving test. If you cannot experience what it is like to cycle along a busy road then how can you adequately understand the needs of cyclists when you are behind the wheel and sharing the same stretch of road with them?
Claire Hill
I cycle to & from work every day covering around 20 miles. I enjoy cycling because it is econonmical in these financially challenging times, it keeps me fit and is the greatest wake up. Wherever possible I avoid cycling on the road due to congestion and the unsafeness of cycling close to buses and large vehicles. I would rather take a £100 fine for cycling on the pavement to secure I live a little longer to continue cycling! Great cause.
Claire hughes
About thirty years ago we had a wonderful family holiday to Holland. I was six and we spent a fortnight enjoying cycling around towns and countryside on the most impressive cycle routes. I can remember then how fantastic it was to have your own cycle lights and to feel safe in your own cycle lanes, I can,t believe that this is only being raised now in this country after all these tragedies. I used to cycle into the City from Clapham about ten years ago before we moved to the Garden of England. I wouldn't do it now I,ve read all these stories as I didn't consider the risk at the time nor did I have two beautiful daughters to consider. Your campaign is raising that awareness and hopefully can make progress to catch up with Holland. Better late than never.
Clare Heaton
Occasional cyclist in Croydon - the pavements are empty and the roads are manic!
Clare Hey
I cycle from Fulham to Holborn every day. It's beautiful ride, going along the river then past Big Ben, the House of Parliament and the London Eye. And the cycle superhighway makes most of my route feel relatively safe. But on the other roads I am often cut up by impatient drivers, zoomed past by enormous lorries, intimidated by people driving very close to me, pushed into dangerous situations by the layout of the road. I am extremely cautious and will always hang back rather than going up the inside of a lorry or other vehicle (and I ALWAYS stop at red lights, by the way), but I always feel that my life is in the hands of others on the road. I see reports about cyclists killed and injured and I ask myself why Boris and the people who plan the roads aren't doing anything to stop this. Imagine a London where everyone feels safe to cycle - what a place that would be to live! Clare
Clive Hook
Nothing beats cycling through the London parks as Spring starts to appear and we can all come up from the London Underground habit of Winter. But sticking to the parks doesn't get you to work, and the joyous freedom of the parks is replaced by the nervous anticipation and caution of the open roads. Cycle lanes help but they're only part of the story and some unexpected endings leave you wondering what you missed and why you're now in the middle of traffic. Let's have a real commitment to just about the most responsible and sustainable form of transport on the planet and make London the leader in cycle safety - not the quietly ashamed culprit behind so many deaths and injuries.
Colin Hatfield
In many countries (driving on the right), cyclists are allowed to turn right at a red light providing it is safe. We could do the same with left turns. Also, what about having a cycle-specific green light at busy junctions that allows the cyclists to get a head start rather than having to compete with and avoid frustrated and fast-accelerating drivers.
Colin Hayter
Several years ago when cycling to work along the busy A27 just east of fareham, I was narrowly missed by a bus on a stretch of dual carriageway. It was only after the bus had passed that I realised that it was full of school children. The reason why I had encountered such a near miss also became apparent when I also realised that in the outside lane there was also another bus equally full of children and the two were seemingly racing one another. In order to avoid me the bus nearest to me had to move out slightly resulting in its outside wing mirror being removed by the second bus, this mirror crashing down just in front of my bike. Fortunately on this occasion no-one was hurt though I never heard anymore from the bus company after phoning in a complaint. I am pleased to say that today there is in fact a cyle path provided to the school in question, but this in my mind certainly endorses the need for more cyle paths not only to protect cyclists from the day to day perils of simply cyling on congested roads, but also to protect them from the more idiotic element of road users, including 'professionals'
Colin Heap
Why can't we have cycling routes like in the Netherlands - it can't be that difficult can it!!
Colin Hinsley
I cycle to work most days - but typically drive when it is raining. You may call me a fair weather cyclist - however, the real reason is that other road users seem to be far less observant. Over a period of 3 years, I have had 1 bad fall - simply not seen by the driver, as well as countless near misses. Sometimes, I feel that it is only matter of time until I end up under the wheels of a vehicle! Great campaign that has my support.
colin Holmes
Bristol is suppose to be the cycling city. However the council is reducing the road width and creating serious hazards for cyclists on one of the main cycle commute routes into the city along Whiteladies road. The number of serious accidents to cyclists will increase and yet there is no consideration being shown by the council.
Craig Hamilton
I am a member of a cycling club in Northamptonshire. Our club rides always obey the Highway Code. A major problem to us in a group is the impatience of drivers from behind. Some will overtake, blaring the horn, on blind corners, brow of a hill, ignoring totally the road markings and common sense.
Cressida Harding
Almost flattened by a recycling truck this morning. He tried to reverse into me... Imagine the irony.
Dan Hazlewood
Our roads need to be repaired. There are far too many stretches of road full of wheel buckling potholes, bumps and quick fix repairs that aren't sufficient. We shouldn't have to swerve into overtaking cars to avoid potholes, it isn't fair on cyclists or on motorists who also have to react quickly due to the state of our roads. Perhaps before we construct new roads we should consider our incompetence at maintaining roads we already have.
Dan Hopgood
Cyclists are vulnerable road users and as such motorised traffic should treat them with special care. Increasingly this is not the case,so action is required to redress the balance - after all, cyclists are the ones reducing congestion and environmental damage. Don't they deserve a little respect?
Daniel Holly
I travel by both car and bike and different days through London. The worst thing on a bike is people pulling out in front of you and pedestrians walking out. Somedays I think I'm wearing an invisibility cloak even though I'm wearing a fluorescent jacket with 4 lights on my bike.
Daniel Howarth
As we know, dealing with the infrastructure of a city helps, but it's also the educating of the public, particularly those that would not dream of cycling. They are the ones that put cyclists at risk. Keep up with the education of children at school, bikeability and cycling proficiency. Make our country a cycling country!
Daniel Humphries
I cycled in London for 8 years when I lived there. It was a great place to ride apart from many intersections which were dangerous except for those fast enough to travel at the same pace as the traffic.
Daniela Harris
I cycle 20 miles each day to work and back and have witnessed countless incidents. Cyclists are as much to blame as drivers, as are pedestrians who step through traffic without looking. My family worry more and more about my daily commute which I hate to put them through but refuse to give up this amazing form of transport and fitness, despite the fact I've lost friends to road accidents. Bike lanes do make a difference but they are limited on the narrow roads. Raising awareness is key (the basketball players and bear campaign was excellent) but it is gaining the respect from drivers that is most important. It feels like a war that has brewed for years. I always put it down to jealousy! To help this problem I would incorporate a colloboration, enforcing a cycling proficiency test within the drivers license process to give drivers an idea of what it really feels like on the road, how vulnerable you are. And to make it balanced - all cyclists should at least take the theory test and ideally have a few lessons on how to drive a car. It's an impossible dream but might just make a better understanding between the two. Harmony may never happen but empathy would be nice. I am definitely a better cyclist and better driver having experienced both sides of the story. To help drivers, cyclists should not just be forced to wear helmets but most importantly high visability, reflective clothing (day and night). This country is grey and wet, lights are not enough. For some reason it's not cool to want to stay alive. When anyone argues the case against wearing a helmet, I simply reply "No - actually you're right... it's just your brain after all" which tends to keep them quiet. Something that cyclists don't appreciate is that eyes and attention levels are always darting around, looking for the radio dial, dealing with some sudden news, driving without their glasses and misty windows, rushing to hospital, looking at the lady's legs in the mini skirt... Drivers are never just looking straight ahead. And cars don't just go forwards and backwards - they're all over the road! I also feel there should be lock-ups provided in work offices over a certain size as bike theft is rifer than ever. There! Daniela Harris
Danny Higginson
I cycle in to work regularly. I am aware it's always a risk especially around 4 wheel drive and lorrys. Some junctions are very hazardous. Needs addressing
Daphne Hill
As a cyclist myself, I am concerned that in this country many younger people seem increasingly to be riding along pavements. We must make our roads safer for cyclists if we are to encourage young people to use them. I have cycled in Italy and France and found drivers there are much more 'bike aware', perhaps because so many people of all ages use bikes there.
dave hart
In March of 2011 i was ran over on my Bike by a Woman car Driver, i was stationary at the Head of traffic as the driver came out of a Junction and Drove through me as if i wasn't there, She then started to Rant & swear at me for Riding into her and damaging her Car even though i was stationary and she came out of a T junction, i then had to suffer Verbal abuse from her Teenage son, She said i had no Right being on the Road and that i should ride in the Gutter where i belong. Even though the Traffic was Heavy only one Motorist came to my aid who happened to be a Cyclist as well and he agreed to be a witness. My Bike was Badly damaged and i suffered Back injuries, She continued to abuse me until the Police arrived. When the Insurance Claims started she first denied being at the Accident scene and that i had fabricated the whole incident.
Dave Hutton
A fantastic initiative and thanks! I cycle in mainly rural areas and hope that our often narrow and poor-lit lanes are not forgotten! A law of presumption of fault by the motorist might be considered which would both concentrate the minds of drivers and also apply to all parts of the country. Also, beware of measures which separate cyclists from motorists - very costly and do not tackle the main issue.
David Halld
I have been hit by a car and injured. I try to ride offroad or on 'back' roads are much as possible. I am always disappointed when a road layout is changed and no provision for cycling is made.
David Hamilton
The journey in and out of Glasgow is a daily challenge and one that brings a sigh of relief when I manage to arrive without injury. Pot holed roads, rutted cycle lanes, cars parked in cycle lanes, pedestrians crossing as if getting hit by a cyclist won't hurt, drivers not giving you sufficient room, buses pulling out without looking, dr
David Harding
I was cycling on a main road with a 30mph limit; this stretch of road had several islands (those which help pedestrians to cross safely by waiting in the centre of the road ). A council refuse truck overtook me and had to pull in so urgently to avoid the island that I felt the back of the vehicle on my elbow. These refuges help enormously in getting pedestrians to the other side, but for cyclists they are a real danger; cars just can't resist trying to get through before the cyclist.
david harrett
My son and daughter are both elite young triathletes in the Welsh squad. My son Iestyn Harrett is part of the British Olympic programme, training last week in Lanzarote with Helen Jenkins and Johnny Brownlee. Two years ago I was hit off my bike breaking my back plus other injuries, leg etc by a driver that did not stop but left me for dead. On a daily basis my wife and I anxiously await his return from his training rides each day. I cycle with my daughter four times a week and on each ride we have close shaves with poor drivers or ones that want to scare you or worse. Wales is a so dangerous for cyclists. Welsh govt sites sustrans as their stategy. Hopeless and useless, devised by politicians who sit on a bike in France once a year. Britain is just not the place for cyclists. Spain, especially Majorca and Belgium have got something to show us re bikes and cars. In the Olympic year our Olympians put their life on the line each day by climbing on a bike. Most dangerous sport in Britain. I played 21 seasons of rugby 10 years at top level. Very hard sport but nothing as dangerous as cycling on British roads.
I ride out in the country mostly. You would think it was safer but the number of cars that cut corners on bends and try to push past on narrow lanes is incredible. Car drivers must be taught when learning that they do not own the road
David Hebbes
I live just outside of Cardiff and use my bike for recreational reasons and when I am working. Although the number of cycle free routes has increased in this area, it is far from ideal and there is definitely scope for further improvement. Over the last few years, I have suffered two accidents in the city where cars were involved. The first occurred when I was on the inside of a middle lane intending to go straight ahead at a roundabout. This lane had markings for both a left hand turn and to continue straight ahead. A car overtook me on the right hand side and cut right across me to turn left. The driver obviously didn't see me at all and hit me. Fortunately no real damage was done on this occasion but I did suffer cuts and bruises and was sore for several weeks. The second occasion, I did not get off anywhere near as lightly. I was riding slowly on the inside of a line of cars that were waiting at traffic lights some distance ahead. A car pulled out of a side road on my left hand side, again not having seen me, and hit me sideways. My foot seemed to get caught in the pedal when the collision occurred and the forces involved resulted in me fracturing both the main tibia and fibia and subsequently being in plaster for 12 weeks. In both cases, the car drivers involved were "let off" by being given the option of attending a driver improvement course. The two accidents have not put me off cycling but have made me very less comfortable with riding on crowded major roads and I use cycle paths whenever I can, which can add to my journey length. I greatly support the public campaign for cycling that you have launched as cyclist, motorist and pedestrian.
David Hilton
I began commuting by bike at the beginning of this year, and have noticed dangerous behaviour from all users of the road. Every day I've seen cyclists with dark clothes and no helmet using the pavement instead of the road and ignoring red lights, even at major junctions. In the space of four weeks, I've come close to crashing into cars who veer into the cycle lane, cars who pull out seemingly unaware that I exist, people casually opening car doors and pedestrians meandering across the road. I can understand why people drive - Greater Manchester's transport network, trams aside, leaves a lot to be desired. As you correctly point out, more cycle lanes alone aren't the answer if they are not protected from car parking or ignored by drivers. Given the success of the Boris bike scheme in London, I think it's scandalous that local authorities here haven't tried something similar. Still, as I whizz past the rush hour traffic, I wonder why it took me so long to convert to a form of transport that is free, good for the environment and healthy to boot. I spent two years living in China from 2002, and even during this short time I saw a nation of cyclists sleepwalk towards an addiction to the car, building ever wider multi-laned roads to cope with the surge in demand, thus polluting city air further and making the streets less safe for cycling. With ever-increasing fuel costs, greater urbanisation and much hand wringing over the state of the nation's health, we should be setting an example to the Chinas of this world. The future should be two wheels - not four.
David Hobday
Excellent to see a national publication launching such a worthwile campaign. Personally, I'm a keen road cyclist, and commute every day by bike for work. I also look after the sustainable transport provision for a large FE institution, so hear the concerns of both staff and students on a daily basis.
David Holman
I am a full, road-going vehicular cyclist with thirty years plus experience. Not an unlit, pavement hopping or red light jumping type at all. I cycle to work because it's more convenient and quicker than the car. Wolverhampton is not as tough a place as central London but legal cycling requires assertive mindframe and faith in the motorist behind. I think Bikeability level 3 should be a pre-requisite for a driving licence. Road sense learnt through cycling would lead to far less floral tributes for boy racers. It's pleasant to cycle in Netherlands, Denmark & Germany because everyone is or has been a utility cyclist. Here you ride 18" from the kerb which gives 1" for the cars to pass you and 17" to swerve out of their way! That's my take on the secondary riding position in any case 20's Plenty on streets where people live is the right way to go. We're held back here from a default 20mph limit because of the "inconclusive" evidence from the Portsmouth blanket 20mph limit project [according to road safety officers at WCC)
David Hoole
Biking is best!
David Howard
As a cyclist myself, it was a horrible experience seeing Mary's accident, which happened just outside our office. Our prayers continue to go out to her and her family. I've had two accidents and narrowly avoid others on a daily basis. I would love to see on-the-spot fines for people parking in the green cycle zone at lights (forcing cyclists to sit on their inside), and perhaps a fund could be set up to invest in cycle-safety technology. Training for cyclists and drivers also needs to be more widely available.
David Hughes
I have used the Barclays bikes in London on a number of occasions and love the scheme. However finding a safe route is a challenge. I try and use back streets but it is tortuous and you always end up back on a busy road or facing the wrong way of a one way street. Cycle lanes do not last long enough. The scheme works beautifully but London is not safe. Let's finish the job by fixing the streets.
david hunt
What do you call a cross between a sheep and lemming? A pedestrian.
David Hurdle
Readers and supporters may be interested in a guide I have just written for the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). CILT's Cycling Forum has just published 'Think Cycling!', aimed at local authority officers and councillors. It is available from on the organisation's website.
Dawn Connor-van der Horst
I am a cyclist and driver in a town. The situation in a town is different t that in a city (as traffic levels are lower) but everybody needs to understand that roads are shared spaces and not purely for motorised traffic. One cheap way of achieving this is to remove the centre line markings (and if you want to go Dutch about it, add cycle lanes to each side of the road). The mere action of removing the centre line makes everyone on the road naturally slow down and think more carefully about the space they are using making the road safer for everyone!
Dean Hersey
I love mountain biking! But to stay in shape i have in the past cycled to work and look to do it again any time soon. Improving cycle safety is only a good thing, and seeing how great the country is at all disciplines of cycling; track, road, downhill mountain biking and bmx racing, having more people riding bikes will only boost the industry and create new talents in the future.
Debbie Head
I do find some cyclists are pretty bad, no lights, dark clothes, in the middle of the road etc, mainly youngsters, two on a bike and don't give a damn - why can't cyclists have a reg number also? I had terrible road rage from a cyclist and had to report it to the police but due to no registration number etc they have never found the violent abusive cyclist to this day. The good cyclists I have no problem with at all, I believe if ANY adult or child wants to cycle they should have to pass a test first (due to the bad cyclists out there.) Yes I'm a car driver but a careful one. I would personally NOT cycle on Londons streets due to the madness of all the traffic and the mad lorry drivers also. This has to work all ways, make drivers more aware but make cyclists adhere to rules too.
Deborah Hey-Smith
I cycled all my life on roads until I came to live in Birmingham. They have loads of cyclists on road at one day event on Pershore Road, but no decent cycle lanes - I mean proper separate cycle lanes. Furious they did not create on A34 when they did big RED BUS ROUTE!
deborah hope
The most important aspect is to have joined up cycle routes where cyclists have priority. Unless I have my children with me, if I have the choice of going on the road or on a pavement cycle path where I have to give way at every side road, I chose the road (and just ignore any complaints). We need real cycle routes that are not just tokens ending in the middle of traffic when space is limited. Give the bicycles the priority and people will feel Safe enough to cycle, which will make it safer again.
Derek Heine
June 5th 2010 I was pushed off my bike by a passenger in a car. My pelvis was severely damaged, collar bone fractured and I continue to have issues with nerve damage to my left leg. It was a clear day I was on my own and it was a wide road with no oncoming traffic. It was done, it appears, for a laugh.The car did not stop and no one has been held accountable.I was unable to return to work full time until April 2011 and am no longer able to drive a manual car. The cycling community has been of great support getting me back on the road. But only 2 weeks ago I was almost hit by a car which overtook me on my trike and then turned left into a garage. The elderly driver either failed to see my bright yellow top, the trike I was on or thought that once passed I would disappear.
Derek Hodgins
I cycle about 8000miles per year which includes pleasure rides & Time Trialing over the recent years I've been knocked off many times been taked to hohpital twice with broken bones The police in all these cases & the times I have had neer misses are not interested . it seems to me they consider me on a bike as neusence & not woth even looking into any issues a raise . so now I just dont bother . moterest consider us as us in there way & thaat we should not be on the road at all ' whilst they in general drive as though its there right to abouse the laws of the land . nothing will chang untill we install a better attutide to others by those behind the wheel!!
derek hollinshead
More cycle lanes, i pleasure cycle on a road bike,i mainly cycle country lanes so dont have much traffic problems,except for the odd tractor potholes are my main problem.
Des Harmon
As all local councils are trying to make cut backs I doubt that creating i.e. altering roadways for cyclists would come top of there to do list, but if locals councils look at places like Germany and other european countries they may discover that just marking out lines and colour areas for cycles only on pavements might be a start in the right direction.
Diane Harrison
I have cycled for over 53 years. Two years ago I purchased an electric bike using the cycle to work scheme and when possible travel the 18 mile round trip to my workbase in Worcestershire. I wear the right gear, use a mirror and assume all motorists are blind to cyclists. There are some marked cycle lanes but they suddenly disappear. One of the most dangerous roads is a B road used as a rat run by commuters. As soon as one car overtakes those behind usually follow like lemmings and most drivers seem to have no concept of wobble room. I am a passionate environmentalist and have taken my folding bike on public transport to towns and cities all over the country. I know my family worry about my safety but I am not going to be literally driven off the road by inconsiderate motorists and I do drive myself so I see both sides. Please help make the roads safer for cyclists. If other European countries can do it so can we.
Doctor Jonathan Heatley
I have cycled since the age of 7 and am now 56. I am a GP and do my visits on a bicycle and am a familiar sight in my home town of Horsham. I try to get my patients to cycle and their main excuse is the perception of dangers on the road.
Dr Bill Haynes
Not just cities. Small towns and rural roads are also lethal. More cycle paths everywhere, as in Holland. I cycle as many as 5,000 miles a year. I also drive over 5k a year with many years pan-European experience. Unfortunately too many drivers don't cycle at all - and too many cyclists have little real driving experience. The two don't mix. Therefore separate them. Solution. Cycle paths everywhere.
Dr Dawn Harper
I cycled From London to Amsterdam and Brussels last year for charity and was struck by safe it feels to cycle in Holland. The bicycle has right of way and everyone from seven to seventy cycles. We could learn a thing or two from the Dutch
Dr Ian N Hampson
I am an academic at the University of Manchester and I help teach young doctor's to be. I was recently saddened and appalled when one of our young medics was killed actually cycling from a local hospital. I wish this was the exception but sadly it is not since I know of many other similar incidents. I used to sit on a sustainability committee which strongly advocated the use of bikes. I personally think this is nuts! Our roads are a disgrace and a death-trap for cyclists. I am a keep fit enthusiast but I have said for many years if you get on a bike in Manchester you are lining up to be a passenger in a body bag!!! The solution is really simple - More bike only pathways which cannot be accessed by cars, wagons busses etc. If the government is really serious about getting people onto bikes to improve fitness, wellbeing etc they should perhaps consider making it more attractive in this regard.
Dr Matthew Hardy
I commute daily by cycle 3 miles into central London. I ride cautiously with hands on brakes and have lost count of the number of times I am cut up by drivers, overtaken dangerously, or squeezed to close to a parked car. In most cases of dangerous overtaking, the car in question ends up tailed back at the next lights and I filter to the front again. That said I deplore the minority - in my experience - of cyclists who jump red lights. We should all obey the road rules. My suggestion for a safety improvement is to allow cyclists to proceed at walking pace when pedestrian lights are green both ways - it would clear junctions of accumulations of cycles well in advance of the traffic flow.
Ed Harman
In Oct 2010 I was knocked off my bike when hit by a large Mercedes car. I ended up in hospital with injuries to both knees and elbows. I was very lucky not to sustain a head injury. To this day my right elbow has not fully healed and probably never will. I was cycling in a small group at the very front of the peloton wearing hi-vis clothing and lights on, yet the driver had no awareness of me or the others and turned left into a side road leaving me nowhere to go and in a split second I was over the bonnet of the car lying on the tarmac. He did not look in his mirror otherwise he would have clearly seen me. The other big issue I believe is that drivers assume a cyclist travels very slowly yet it's very realistic for us to travel at 20-25mph so they don't have the time they think they have to make their crossings at non-signalled junctions. This particular driver verbally abused me when lying in the road and later reported it to the police as criminal damage to his car! The police quickly understood it was an RTA at the driver's fault as fortunately I had 4 witnesses who were right behind me at the time. The driver should have got 6 points but later I received a letter from the police to say that he opted for a driver awareness course instead. I am now back cycling and am looking at video cameras to attach to my bike helmet
Edwin Hargraves
I retired to live in North Shropshire where there are lots of quiet lanes and only ride on main roads and in towns when I have to. Most dangerous driving to cyclists is caused by excessive speed and poor anticipation, so driver training has a big part to play in road safety. Lorries - keep well away from them at junctions and stop them overtaking on bends.
Elizabeth Haynes
I often drive from Norfolk to Ebury Street. I support the cyclists who ride safely but feel they should have a licence.Very often they go through the red light in front of one. If they cause an accident they are not insured. As a car driver I rightly have to pay Car Tax and be Insured.
My other half cycles around London and when he's overdue home I get so afraid because I know how dangerous it is out there; one of my biggest fears is the lack of safety when cycling in cities. As a car driver, I know I'm careful but even I don't always see every cyclist until they're next to my window.
Ellen Holmes
In 2010 I got knocked off my bike by a speeding car coming over a blind hill. If I hadn't been wearing a back pack with a jumper and a coat in it I would probably have broken my back
Elsa Hirst
A couple of years ago my bike acquaplanned in heavy rain on the railway lines around the old harbour in Weymouth and I was knocked unconscious and suffered a badly broken cheek bone. The inside corner of my mouth is still numb. There have been many accidents similiar to mine or with cycle wheels getting caught between the rails, but in many stretches it is impossible to avoid or not cross the rails, especially as the narrow road is shared with cars and pedestrians.
Emily Hay
One of my colleagues has been seriously injured cycling into work. I don't want my son to have a bicycle - it is too dangerous cycling in our area.
Emma Hall
I used to cycle in London until I witnessed too many accidents and had too many near misses. Bike lanes with cars (legitimately) parked in them, sudden ending of bike lanes, no penalties for cars driving in bike lanes, leads to horrendous and fatal accidents that could be halted. This campaign is the only way anything will ever change.
Eric van der Horst
I am a Dutch national (and therefor cyclist!) who lived in the UK for over 5 years. Although I didn't plan it like that I've become a cycling campaigner with expertise in various fields for over 3 years. You might like to find out about my work for future articles as support for your manifesto, see http://thecyclingdutchman.blogspot.com. Regarding infrastucture I wrote 2 articles so far: One about "A different lick of paint", see http://thecyclingdutchman.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2011-01-01T00:00:00Z&updated-max=2012-01-01T00:00:00Z&max-results=9 and one about the need for public demand to bring the change and how this public demand could be created in the UK: http://thecyclingdutchman.blogspot.com/2011_11_01_archive.html Look forward to hear from you and thumbs up for your initiative!
erica hollis
After returning from a cycling holiday in Belgium we were appalled to find that in Aberdeen international cycle route 1 would simply "end of cycle route" on approach to any difficult junctions. How different from our European neighbours. Of course in Scotland cyclists can always "beam me up Scotty" and levitate over the junctions - silly me!
Erica Howe
I have been a cycling fan and a cyclist for years. As a fairly confident cyclist, I regularly get a torrent of abuse from frustrated car drivers who are trying to make their journey as quickly as possible. A major part of this campaign needs to address how to shift the negative attitudes towards cyclists and cycling. It's environmentally friendly, cheap, healthy and in some cases, quicker for commuting. I dont believe that attitudes and infrastructure will change overnight but I wholeheartedly support the campaign to make cities safer for cyclist in the hope that one day our slow, clunky, outdated government will start to look to other European cities as a role models on thus subject.
Erica Hunt
My daughter is thirteen years old and has been cycling competitively and for pleasure since she was eight years old. She rides the track, mountain bikes and cycles on our roads accompanied by my husband and club members. She is part of a youth cycling club called Towy Riders based in carmarthenshire, west wales. I was very saddened to read your article about your colleague and I send my thoughts to her family. This is all too much of a common occurence on our roads whether it be city or countryside. Within the last year a young cyclist was killed in our locality, again by the driver of a HGV leaving another family totally devastated. As a mother who worries obsessively each time my husband and daughter take to our roads, I fully support this campaign to make all our roads safer and to raise awareness amongst vehicle users. I have sent messages to our club members asking them also to pledge support. Get well Mary, my family and many others will be thinking of you.
Ewen Hatchwell
I have been almost knocked off my bike many times by cars overtaking too close to me. The default position should be that in the event of an accident between a motorised vehicle and a bike the motorised vehicle is at fault.
fay hepworth
i worry about my daughter (a teacher in london) and her fiance (a bbc researcher in london) who live in islington and who both cycle to work - so i'm keeping them up to speed with your terrific campaign
Fiona hoggard
I cycle to work and back in London. Having had a friend killed on the roads by a truck turning left I am very aware of traffic and make myself as visible as possible with lights and high vis jackets etc. it amazes me the number of cyclists who wear black clothing, have poor or no lights and make dangerous manoeuvres. I welcome the training of both drivers and cyclists.
Frank Harradence
I cycle both road and mountain biking. I have cycled through Holland (2009) & to a less extent in Denmark. In 2006 I was seriously injured whilst cycling in Norwich. In the UK we should:- Seek to separate cycle routes from fast/heavy traffic. Commission foot paths to include cyclists. Further educate & seek to change unsafe practices by all road users Reduce speed limits in busy areas. Thank you
Frank Head
It's not just in cities; cycling on rural roads is also nerve-wracking at times, mainly due to inconsiderate driving.
Frank Hudson
(1) Some cycle paths are not maintained and cars often park in them (2) A few years ago a car passenger threw a cup of water over me when their car passed me on a main road - another driver stopped to give me their registration number so I could make a complaint - which I never did but was glad that not all car commuters are the same!
franz hoeritzauer
Cycling keeps people healthy and happy. Why do our roads make cycling dangerious and difficult?
Fraser Handcock
This will only be a good thing but cyclists also need to do their bit - their should be fines for cyclists who disregard the traffic rules of the road. They are often more dangerous than the vehicles themselves.
Gail Hutchings
Cycle lanes should be safe and joined up. Full stop. It's the quickest and most environmentally clean way to travel. And it's fun.
Gareth Hooper
I was recently knocked off my bike I mile from work at the end of my 27 mile journey in. The Police said there was not enough evidence to prosecute the motorist. And in order to simply re-claim the cost of ripped clothing and damaged bike, I had to take the driver to court via no-win, no-fee. I was actually blue-lighted to hospital from the scene with shock and suspected broken neck. The injuries notwithstanding, I simple sought the costs of repairs back and she didn't have the decency to pay. Now, despite my aversion to such tactics, I am trying to squeeze every penny I can out of her.
Garland Hansmann
I cycle from Wimbledon to the City of London and back three to four times a week. On nearly every one of those journeys there will be an occasion where a car, bus or van comes dangerously close to running me over. In many instances motorists are aware of how close they come, but are willing to take the risk for the sake of progressing a little faster. I understand their frustration, sitting in traffic, another obstacle in the form of a cyclist is the last thing they need. So they just try and squeeze past or cut in front of the cyclist. The problem is, they don't take the risk, the cyclist does. This situation will not get better, since London traffic will not get better. Therefore the only way to protect cyclists is to physically separate them from the motorists. The cycle super highways in London are a first step. But motorists don't respect them. It's just a lick of paint on the road to them. A further improvement would be a kerb or a traffic delineator to prevent cars from accidentally or purposefully driving or parking in the cycle path. The mayor has done fantastic work in getting more people cycling. Please make sure these people are safe!
Gary Hicks
The British idea of cycle lanes leaves much to be desired. They are discontinuous in the main with some stretches that measure 5-10m long. Many of the cycle lanes that are long enough to use run in the gutter and so are littered with broken glass and other sharp hazards which make the need for regular puncture repair stops; not to mention the drain covers and poorly finished road services that make cycling hazardous without adding car, vans, buses and HGVs. I regularly ride from London Victoria to Guildford..a mere 30miles each way. I estimate that I may have 3 near misses per week with drivers whom simply don't see me, despite wearing day-glow yellow top and annoying flashing lights. The only time I feel comfortably safe is riding in a bus lane and then its simply because I can generally cycle faster than a bus. My suggestion is to create proper cycles lanes that can be used by all and not discontinuous ones that are filled with drain covered i.e. the lanes need to be fit for purpose a criteria that appears sadly missing when (and I assuming this) the local authority is asked to provide evidence on its cycle lanes. I would make wearing of cycle helmets compulsory. I would make cycling at night without lights an offence. I would make motorists that drive in cycle lanes (as with bus lanes) an offence. Being an offence would generate money which could be used by local authorities to maintain the lanes
Gavin Heys
Drivers need to treat cyclists like other cars. Make tailgating of cyclists an offence. Make pavements wider to allow cycles on them, rather than push us onto roads (especially children). Build cycle path down the side of the thames (river side).
Geoff Horton
I'm 60 and not a terribly energetic cyclist but I'm frequently arguing with car and bus drivers. The main problem is that they seem to assume a right to overtake and do so when there is not enough room. I have been clipped by wing mirrors, forced off the road and (fairly often) seen them go past the wrong side of keep left bollards. This week a bus that had been well behind me at the Oval started to overtake and pulled into the bus stop with me trapped between it and the kerb. I drive a car as well (more often than I cycle) and have no doubt that cyclists are more sinned against than sinning.
George Hickman
I commute 9 miles to work from a small town into a fairly bike friendly city but still regularly get stuck in traffic blocking the bike lanes.
Georgia Hicks
I have been waiting for a campaign like this for years. It is absolutely no good for Boris or other figures of authority to promote cycling in cities if there is not the infastructure / highway code / rules to support them and ensure their safety. I will give one (important) example. The cycle lanes we currently have are not working. They are either: a)in the gutter, by the kerb and run into the bus stop; or b) merely painted bicycles on the road; or c) on the pededestrian foot path. I will address each point in turn. a. CYCLING IN THE GUTTER. It is not safe for bikes to cycle in the furthest left hand lane, by the curb. This is how cyclists get killed; when large vehicles are turning left and don't see them. This is also where buses are constantly moving in and out of bus lanes. Cyclists either find themselves being trapped in by a bus overtaking them, only to close into the bus stop, or being pursued by a bus as it waits to move into the bus stop. Cyclists need to stay in between the lanes on road. B. CYCLE SYMBOLS PAINTED ON THE ROAD. This is a joke. There is no clear demarcation for motorists to see that bicycles are allowed in that place on the road. If, as a cyclist, you decide to cycle in between lanes for the reasons given in 'a' above, motorists hoot and yell abuse at you, telling you to "get over" to the gutter side.This is especially true at roundabouts where you need to be in lane, in order to take the correct turning. Motorists STILL seem to think that you should always be in the furthest left lane. At the moment, the safest way to cycle on London streets is to try to stick to the in-between-lane route and move out the way of large vehicles. This inevitably involves ducking and weaving and is DANGEROUS. c) CYCLE LANES ON PEDESTRIAN FOOTPATHS. I don't think there is much to say about this, other than that it is ridiculous. Pedestrians never notice that they are walking on a cycle lane. They are completely unaware of the danger. It is not safe for pedestrians to have cyclists on their pavements. In conclusion, proper cycle lanes need to be developed; ones that aren't in the gutter and are more than mere paintings on the main road. They need ALL to be bright blue or green and, there ought to be a penalty fine for any motorist who encroaches on them, just as there now is for bus lanes. I cannot recall how many times I have almost been knocked off my bike, whilst in the cycle lane or out, by cars not looking, not signalling, and actually NEVER SEEING me, even after they've almost hit me. THANK YOU to The Times. At long last this might get sorted out.
georgina howling
I am a regular cyclist around London, being a student it is the cheapest, most direct, and actually fastest way around the city. I get many near misses when cars are pulling out of spaces, often when going prematurely when facing oncoming traffic. However, I have actually been hit by a council truck, which failed to indicate and look before turning so knocking me sideways, and nearly to the ground. A witness told me I could have done nothing more in my situation, especially when wearing bright florescence which i thought would have made me very visible. I am still waiting for the council to help fix my bike, which will hopefully happen soon, to help eliminate any extra dangerous factors to my journey. I would suggest that all vans and trucks have extra wing mirrors (like small flexible extensions to the ones they already have), that can be angled so they can especially help see cyclists. Perhaps even needed on cars. Anything to help them be aware that there will more often than not be a cyclist on the road, so its imperative to check for one before pulling off or turning.
Giles Hardern
I decided to cycle to the Etihad stadium in Manchester to watch City play. It's right next to the National Cycling Centre so I decided to look on their website to find advice on the best cycling route avoiding as much traffic as possible. To my amazement there were no cycle route suggestions of the website at all. If the National Cycling centre doesn't take it seriously who else is going to? I generally only cycle for fitness not for commuting. I try to go as early in the morning as possible to avoid any traffic.
giles hawke
I cycle 17 miles each way to central Southampton once or twice a week during the summer months. There is not one stretch of cycle track along my whole route and it is often quite a scary experience, especially with lorries and buses.
Gina Hine
Admittedly I am a fair weather cyclist but I do cycle into work into central Manchester in the summer. The cycling lanes are practically non existent and even the few that are there start & stop with no rhyme or reason. Bus drivers are impatient and intimidating if you're in their lane (the only option on Oxford Road), pedestrians are unhappy if you are forced onto the pavement and most car drivers seem resentful that you are allowed on the road at all. One driver clipped me with his wing mirror and when I fell didn't even stop to see if I was ok - 2 cyclists did. Hamburg has got it right, there are clearly marked cycling lanes everywhere, drivers are respectful and cycling is encouraged. Isn't it about time we invest in a form of transport that is an Eco friendly and healthier option?
glyn holmes
i would like to know why we dont have better cycle lanes on our roads around abergavenny and the surrounding villages i have nearly been hit twice going into crickhowell and abergavenny
Gordon Haggart
We need Amsterdam style street planning - with reduced access for motor vehicles and increased focus on public transport and cycle lanes. Have a good look at the model for Amsterdam, and you'll see that it we can keep our HGV supply lanes open on the main roads and seperate cycles and pedestrians from motor vehicles.
Graeme Hutchison
I commute by cycle during the summer. I have had a lot of near misses, and have been hit twice by an overtaking car's wing mirror. One of these times a woman driver of a BMW wound down her window at the traffic lights and hurled abuse at me, and showed me her cracked mirror saying "look what one of you cyclists did to my mirror last month" I was shocked that she was confessing to hitting another cyclist, and didn't even know what she was doing. I also get wound up with peple saying I don't pay road tax and have no right to the road. When in fact, there is no such thing as road tax, and I do pay vehicle excise duty on my car as well as my council tax which pays for road maintenance. The main issue here is driver ignorance, as it is with most cases, the only people who are really aware of cyclists are cyclists themselves and their close friends and family, everyone else doesn't give a hoot.
Graham Heysett
I cycle in Exeter and whilst the County Council have made very good progress with the limited resources they have been given it is still dangerous on the road for cyclists. Some vehicle drivers are totally intolerant of cyclists and roads where people live, work and shop should be 20mph.
graham hollands
Car drivers (rarely lorries) specifically drive without due consideration for other road users not just cycles horses too. Change the law so that accidents are automatically the fault of the motorised vehicle driver as is the case in other countries
graham hooley
what we need as cyclists is a 1.5 meter rule so that motorists give us space to manoeuvre around holes and other obsticals in the road
Graham Horwood
I spent four years working with cycling groups trying to improve cycle safety.I regularly commute across London. I'm really pleased that a big supporter has come on board but this should have happened years ago. London is a Victorian City which will struggle to accommodate the separate cycle lanes we need. Until EVERYBODY recognises the need to improve their behaviour on the roads we will struggle. Road users go in silo's "we are safer than other groups"... I've witnesses foolish cyclists, day dreaming pedestrians, terrible driving and unbelievable buses and lorries. Junction engineering alone will not solve it, there has to be a massive investment in cyclist training for ALL road users as part of a driving test. I hope this campaign s successful.
Graham Hughes
I enjoy cycling and I recognise the benefits it gives both to me and to my community. I work at a variety of different locations and I find that the organisations I work for frequently do not cater for cyclists in an effective way. I would encourage all businesses and public bodies to provide secure parking and changing facilities for cyclist and to make information about this provision easily accessible, e.g. prominently displayed on websites and included in any literature about finding your way to premises.
Graham Hutson
I ride regularly with a group and everyone I know has a story about being knocked off their bike at some time or other. This should not be the case. The road system needs to change to reflect the growing popularity of cycling and its benefits, but most of all attitudes and prejudices need to change. Now.
Greg Hobden
We are not indestructable therefore: - Motor vehicles should keep there distance - Cyclists should not whizz through red lights - Pedestrians should always use pedestrian crossings to cross the road
Guy Hills
I cycle every day and take my children to school every morning by bicycle. I also have invented Lumatwill a reflective tweed used in luxury cycle clothing from Dashing Tweeds. Guy
hannah henderson
I love cycling to work in norwich. It is such a green beautiful city. More and more people are out on their bikes these days. I would love it if there was more cycle ways in the city, to make my journeys to work each day safer. A lower speed limit would also help.
I cycle daily through London, including Bishopsgate. I strongly feel that there should by cycleways through our towns and cities to give cyclists space and safety on the roads. Drivers need to be better educated so they can look out for cyclists and give space to them at junctions and red lights.
Harry Harris
Some London junctions are an absolute death trap on a bike. You're expected to stick to the road, but if you're trying to go left or right at a busy junction it's a nightmare - cars coming at you left, right, and centre - you wait in the middle of the road until you can turn, but some traffic lights change before you have time to get into the cycle lane. I've seen 5 cyclists get knocked off just by Wandsworth Bridge (by Currys) - a nightmare junction on a bike when trying to turn. One time I stopped to help a cyclist covered in blood, as I went over a guy got out his guy (stopped in middle of junction), stumbling all over the place, the driver started shouting abusively at the cyclist. The cyclist said the car had pulled left into him as he was going across the junction. Whatever happened, the driver appeared to be mumbling and struggling to stand up - he looked drunk. The cycle lane is great, that's if you don't get a big construction lorry driving in it as their fast lane - I've not been far away from being crushed on a couple of occasions.
Harry Hesketh
It's not just the cities. I live and cycle in the Yorkshire dales and I've had very close calls in a variety of situations with pedestrians and car and coach drivers simply not registering my presence (despite my eye-wateringly bright clothing). People need constantly reminding to look at what's really there rather than just quckly checking for large vehicles.
Harry Huyton
We need cycle lanes that are well maintained and seperate from roads and pedestrians. I cycle to work every day and have done for 10 years. I've been knocked off three times, each time by a vehicle that has manoevered or turned without warning. Fortuanately I've not been seriously injured, but it leaves me scared that one day I won't be so lucky. Great campaign, well done to the Times.
Hayley Husiw
Where do I start. I used to cycle to work as it is free, a nice way to exercise and I like cycling, but not on British roads. I felt so unsafe I started to dread my morning commute, drivers just don't seem to have any regard for other road users. Something about cyclists makes them see red and turns them into bullies. So when I quit cycling to save my own sanity and blood pressure, I started taking the bus. Only, this just gave me a front row seat view of a cyclist almost being run off the road. I sent in a letter to Stagecoach in complaint, because I am sick of these people getting away with dangerous behaviour. They acknowledged my email, but I am yet to hear about any further action. My suggestion is simple. Drivers need to have more respect, get off their high horses about being king of the road and SHARE it with everyone. We need more cycle lanes, with double yellow lines - what is the point of a cycle lane with cars parked all down it?? We need traffic lights that let cyclists go first - I have lost count of the amount of cars that 1) park on the green cycle space and 2) zoom forwards as soon as the light changes, my closest encounter with an accident happened at such a time and the driver had the cheek to shout abuse at me! Britain should look at other places to see how it is done, such as Portland in America. I was shocked to hear they have cycle lanes with space for TWO bikes, it makes me want to leave Britain and live there. So British drivers, please listen to this campaign. Cyclists are not an inconvenience for you to narrowly miss with your bumper, nor are they just trying to get in your way, just like you, they are trying to get somewhere, and perhaps one day, it will be a Britain we are proud of, and not the country that bullies vulnerable road users. Thank you. P.S right hand out means I am turning right, it is not an invitation to overtake me at speed. Idiot.
I have a daughter and son who cycle to work in London. My daughter has had two accidents. As a mother I worry becauce I have ridden around Paris on a velib,with my other son and did not feel threatened at all. The other road users seemed very aware of cyclists even going round the Etoile
My daughter cycles in London - and I worry.
Henry Haslam
For every cyclist who complains about other road users, there is probably another road user who complains about cyclists. I walked out of a shop today and nearly collided with a cyclist riding too fast on the pavement. One of the troubles with cyclists is that they come at you from all directions. A cyclist in the right place can come as a surprise. For this reason, a careful cyclist who observes the law and the Highway Code may be more at risk than the sharp-eyed, quick-witted opportunist who cares nothing for the law. Pedestrians and motorists (I am both) seem to coexist well enough, but somehow in today's conditions cyclists don't coexist well with either; I therefore support the campaign.
Hirani Himona
I would never ride a bike in London, I don't know anyone who does who hasn't been hit by a car.
monday 28 feb 2010 cycling to work at traffic lights at T junction waiting to go left.HGV beside me but I thought loads of space.Lights go green and lorry takes off going to right. I then realise lorry is coming closer and closer to me.There is a barrier so I cannot move. Lorry's taillight?caught in front wheel and I am completely thrown up and back summersault and fist thing to thump on the road is back of my head.I was wearing a helmet.Without it I am convinced I would have had serious head injuries or killed.I am one of the lucky female cyclists.
I Holroyd
Cyclists do need to be very wary of big lorries - and vice versa - this could be costly to trucking companies. Cyclists have responsibilities too and should make sure they are well educated concerning the risks. I skidded on a wet roundabout. The bike went from under me. A car pulled onto the roundabout, blocking it, and the driver kindly waited until I had picked myself up. A quick-thinking and kind person. Copyright I Holroyd 2012
Iain Hunt
I cycle to work every day, from Greenwich in south east London to central London. I love it, I feel so much better as a result. But it's hazardous. We need defined liability legislation, like in Germany, France, Belgium and Holland, where the motorist is automatically liable for injuries to cyclists in any accident. The other thing, which is hard to legistlate for, but which this manifesto would do a lot to help with, is respect between road users. Too often, car, truck and motorbike drivers give me the impression that I am just an obstacle in their way, a thing that is blocking their rightful and speedy progress. The only way to stop this is to ride confidently and not to hide in the gutter. You have to take your chances sadly.
Ian A. Hunter
I commute into Glasgow. It's only a six mile trip,but 2.5 miles is on a busy roads. The general standard of driving,never mind in relation to a vulnerable bike is appalling, and I breathe a sigh of relief when I get to the 'safe' part of my route. Unfortunately, the 'bad part is at the end of the day, on my return home. I'm personally lit up like a Steven Spielberg UFO and my bike lights are good as well, but these clowns are still too close. I drive myself.
Ian Harrison
I live and work in Wakefield and am dismayed by the Local Authority's complete disregard of the cyclist. The whole city centre is undergoing a much needed all singing, all dancing rejuvenation with pedestrianised areas, one way streets and a much improved environment but guess what ..... there aren't any cycle lanes and hardly any facilities included in this regeneration. It's only a matter of time before a cyclist is seriously injured or even worse, killed on the streets of Wakefield City Centre because of the failures of the council and planners. Quite frankly it's a disgrace!!!
Ian hayward
In my opinion there needs to be improvements in both the way people drive and the way people cycle. I commute and cycle with a club at weekends. During the commute you see cyclists ignoring any traffic laws (red lights) which both annoys cyclists obeying the law and also drivers. Cyclists all need to be educated about the perils of going through red lights and how this is lowering the perception of cyclists by other people. The standard of driving is mixed to say the least. Cycling with my club at the weekend we were shouted off the road by a car driver who said we should not be on the road. These aggressive drivers should be taken off the road before they cause an accident. Commuting in London is not ideal either. There is a distinct lack of cycle routes, where there are cycle routes cars seem to park in them. No one takes any notice of the ASLs, meaning cyclists can not get ahead of traffic at junctions.
Ian Holder
Not stories, but three issues: 1 - 30 minutes cycling should be a mandatory part of the driving test (all tests, including HGV). This would make drivers more aware of the issues faced by cyclists. 2 - when the national lottery started there was a proposal that some of the money would be used to create a national cycleway network. I do not see much evidence of this network - what has happened to the proposal? 3 - why do cycle paths often stop at the more challenging areas such as roundabouts and busy junctions?
ian hollidge
great campaign. Our bexhillwheelers.org.uk with other East Sussex cycle groups have been saying exactly the same for years. We have worked with councils for better links, routes, facilities, training, etc. It took us 15 years to explain to Rother District Council that cycling should be allowed and encouraged on our promenade, something they now are trialing for a year. With your campaign it would be dificult for them to change back after the trial. As a local Sustrans ranger for NCN2 in Bexhill-on-Sea we fully suport your work and ask if there is anything else we can do to help? regards ian.h
Ian Hooper
I'm 63 I have cycled 10m from home to central London on and off since 18. Then cycling was seen as a sensible transport option used predominatly by the working classes, and I believe then it was accepted as sensible by other road uses. Today its different; some non cyclists see it as making a smug statement, especially if the cyclist is serious and wears all the proper clothing - shoes lycra etc. I have been knocked off and driven off the road a few times; but thankfully nothing serious, but when confronting the drivers, of usually white vans they have said "you are only a cyclist!" or you "should be ashamed of yourself dressed like that!" The ignorance and stupidity is amazing. It will take a miracle to change the mindset of the worst of the British driver. The most exhausting part of my ride is the 100% concentration and focus required to think ahead and try to predict what may happen from second to second; its wearing and I'm getting too old for that part!
Ian Hopkins
Firstly let me say this. What happened to Mary is truly tragic, the sort of thing I usually avoid reading about as it could so easily be me or somebody I know. I've driven a car for 22 years, been the holder of a motorcycle license for a decade and ride a bicycle every day (and do most annual mileage on) so having occupied just about every position you possibly can on the road I'm not coming purely from a cyclists perspective, more from a 'make it painless for everyone' point of view. In London where I live, I see some truly horrific riding and driving on a daily basis - red lights run with headphones on, drivers on blackberry's writing emails and people so hell bent on getting to where they are going in a hurry that everyone else on the roads, whatever flavour, becomes fair game. It strikes me that the ultimate responsibility for a cyclist's welfare should lie primarily with cyclists themselves. They are the ones who get damaged. In terms of 'bang-for-your-buck' you will save more lives by directing your investment on educating cyclists than you will by trying to educate other road users. A lot of accidents can be avoided by cyclists simply not occupying the position they do on the road in the first instance, on the inside of a lorry as opposed to behind it and out to one side with an escape route. These things are taught on a motorcycle test, but they are not innate. Only a combination of training and experience will make you aware of these things, keeping you out of dangerous positions and making it easier for the well intentioned but slightly oblivious driver. I would personally like to impart a lot of what I've learned on London's roads to other cyclists but have no formal safety qualification (is there one even?) – I think my actions would probably be construed as illegal if I did so. A lot of what I would teach would irk other road users - essentially it's going to slow them down if cyclists start doing it en masse but it will, I believe, make cycle journeys safer for cyclists. So, I suggest the following 1. Why not have some sort of compulsory training for cyclists (or if not compulsory why not incentivise a cyclist with a government-backed money-off voucher to everyone buying a new bike, providing they complete a safety course)? Nothing talks like money... The training could be undertaken by volunteers like me. But it would need to be real-world training, the sort that will have an impact and you can see is going to keep you alive one day, done on busy roads (as crazy as this sounds it's to everyone's benefit)... 2. Outlaw earphones on a bike! Most definitely not in the national interest. A Fixed Penalty should do the trick. 3. Amend driving tests to include greater emphasis on safety for other road users. This should be aimed more at car and particularly truck drivers. Motorcyclists suffer many of the same positional problems as bikes. In Europe, a lot of the issues we have here simply don't exist, people respect the cyclist. That is something we need to promote. 4. Improve road infrastructure to cater for more cyclists. London is already a winner on this front. What about the rest of the country? Build it and they will come… More Trixi mirrors at lights, more cycle superhighways, more bike parking. Also don't skimp on surfacing for bike lanes (London, this is one area where you have let yourself down – it's nice that they are blue but don't just put the sticky stuff where you perceive a cyclist will brake). 5. Cyclists should have obligatory 3rd party insurance. Everybody needs to be more responsible. I hope this would promote accountability amongst cyclists. I'm sure I'll think of a few more points in the coming days, but in a nutshell, cyclists need to help themselves and be more accountable. If other road users see this, I'm sure they will see us in a more positive light. It's about time we cultivated more love on the roads.. Ian
Ian Hunter
My bugbear is vehicles overtaking a cyclist only to turn left almost immediately, resulting in the cyclist having to brake very suddenly, or worse. I can't see any justification for this: any ideas for combatting it?
Ion Holban
I live in Brent (Willesden Green) and cycle to work in Central London on a daily basis. Brent is one of the worst examples of out-dated transport infrastructure, with all the main roads linking it to Central London being both narrow and over-crowded. To make matters worse, there are no secondary roads for cyclists to use due to an unfortunate legacy of railways, waterways and poorly designed motorways. There are almost no cycle highways or cycle facilities. Unless the roads infrastructure issue is addressed, cyclists will continue to be in danger on Brent's roads. A couple of temporary solutions, while the bigger issue is addressed, will be to limit speed on major roads to 20 mph and redesign some of the dangerous road junctions. Until then, cycling will remain an extreme activity in Brent, to be undertaken at your own risk!
Jack Horry
Too many cars are overtaking cyclists and then turning left in front of the cyclist. This is often known as left hooking. A publicity campaign for cars to wait for the 2 seconds for the junction or pinch point to clear would help massively.
Jacky Hatchwell
Bikes should have priority over cars at all times.
Jacqueline Hopkins
This is long overdue but cyclists need to take some control. Many do not wear high visibility clothing, they ride up the nearside of large HGVs at junctions out of view of the driver, the better option would be stay back and allow the lorry to clear the junction. There needs to be more instruction for riders to stay out of danger spots and drivers in general, not only HGV drivers.
Jacqui Howard-johnston
I love to cycle in Edinburgh but frequently avoid or push on the busy roads as motorists do not leave falling distance. I think a motorist aware advertising campaign is a good idea.
James Harness
We need a culture of care and understanding on our roads and in our road planning. I've been the victim of a hit and run, been doored and had my bike stolen in the last two years. Having lived in France and Switzerland I know it doesn't have to be like this. I'm optimistic that things can change. Thankyou The Times for highlighting the very many societal and negative issues around what could be such a positive, pro-active and happy pleasure.
James Hart
A taxi driver drove into the side of my bike on purpose because he couldn't get past me!
James Hartnett
Having a road bike is both a pleasure and a burden. On one hand, I can keep up with most cars so don't run the risk of being cut up much. However, what with their lightweight design, it only takes a brief wind or bad road surface for me to forcibly veer into traffic. Often cars are only feet away from me, and never quite give the room I require - cycle lane or not.
James Hartwright
I've been using my bike for sport and for commuting to work for several years. I think cycling is becoming safer as more people cycle and more drivers either cycle themselves or know someone who does but there is a still a long way to go. As a cyclist I travel relatively quickly and I am confident using the roads but I also have two very young children who are learning to ride and trying to put together a cycle route for them from our house to anywhere useful is very difficult. Currently they need off-road bike lanes and these are piecemeal at best.
James Hayward
I have only been cycling in London since around October 2011 but I have already witnessed a couple of nasty accidents (none fatal I'm pleased to say). One of them was bike on bike where one turned right across the rider in front of me, knocking her off. I agree that cyclists need to be looked after by the authorities in cities, but I also think that it is also our own responsibility to make things safer for ourselves: Wear a helmet (the afore-mentioned victim was not!), fit lights, keep the bike safe and maintained and, most importantly, respect and observe the rules of the road, especially NOT RUNNING THROUGH RED LIGHTS! I pledge my full support to this campaign as a cyclist in London, and hope that most if not all the proposed changes can be implemented. One final comment: Potholes and drains and other such hazards, while perhaps insignificant to cars and buses, cause cyclists (including myself) to weave and swerve in avoidance, often at high speeds. This puts all road users in danger and should be addressed. James Hayward. SE8.
James Hayward
The only real way that things can get safer is with a change in attitudes (from all sides). If there was a way of dispelling the annimosity towards cyclists and a little more respect was given, I'm sure the roads would be a much safer place. We all have to remember, whatever vehicle we are in/on WE ARE ALL HUMAN BEINGS.
James Hayward
As an intensive care doctor and keen cyclist and commuter - I see the benefits and risks of cycling daily. I have seen too many people seriously injured through RTAs. The prevailing thought for me is that one silly moment for a motorist might result in a scratch on their bodywork and could result in a life lost. Motorists: think bike.
James Hedges
I've had a lot of trouble around Old St Round-a-bout in the City of London. Red Light cameras would help a lot here. Mandatory helmets would be worth investigating - similar to Australia's policy. Along with all 8 points listed in your manifesto.
James Herst
I have recently moved to London and have decided to cycle to work to save money and to improve my fitness. I cycle from Canning town into the city . The route is very safe and incredible easy because London Transport has laid down a cycle super highway. If they did this across the whole of London I think there would be far fewer deaths on the roads.
james holding
I was knocked off my bike by a White Van which pulled out in front of me at the Waterloo IMax roundabout. I came around the Imax coming from the Vauxhall direction, as I came round a White van did not stop at the give way sign on to the roundabout and continued to enter on to the round about, right in front of me. I let of a loud yell and the van and I slammed our brakes on. I ended up on the road, in front of the Van having gone over my handle bars. I really do think that the roads need a better cycle lane, one that is either on a different level to the road, or with a boarder or edge that will prevent Cars/lorries from entering into the lane.
James Holloway
I am very pleased that The Times has deemed this long standing issue worthy of a front page. Cyclists are unfortunately victim to a particular form out in/out group psychology which percolates through the whole of British society. As the majority of adults would call themselves drivers rather than cyclists, the concerns of cyclists are downplayed and neglected and most worryingly blamed solely on the person cycling, while those of the 'motorist' are trumpeted and indiscretions and accidents are more easily forgiven as motorists are very much the 'in' group. The two reports I link below show how little has changed in the decade between them. We still blame cyclists for getting killed in far too many cases.
James Horner
As both a cyclist and a driver I often see behaviour from both groups that is dangerous. The main problem I find is ignorance on the road from both parties... Cyclists who just pull out from behind parked cars, stay too near the pavement and swerve in the road... to the motorists who still think cyclists need to pay road tax. I was very surprised doing my driving test recently that there was nothing on cyclists in the theory, how far u need to overtake them by... not overtaking if there is an island ect... I think this one of the main causes of dispute and in my opinion Education is the key.
James hunt
Bristol is promoted as one of most popular cycling cities in the uk, but it is the safest?? I think not. Cycle lanes join main roads at horrendous points and generally aren't co-ordinated well. Cycle paths are parked on and badly maintained. The tourist information points spread the word of cycling in Bristol but the reality is must different. Speed limits on inner city roads need to be controlled! James Hunt
jamie halliday
everybody i know that cycles has, at some point, been hit by a vehicle. my fiance nearly became a statisitc when she was nearly dragged under the wheels of a lorry. ive been rammed by a motorist for cycling along a road and not a cycle path near richmond park. this campaign has to work, because i dont want a friend killed. and one will be, im sure.
Jane Hampson
Don't just target the cities. I live in a small village and wouldn't cycle round here. The lanes are far too dangerous. Cars hurtle down ur country lanes without thinking there may be a cyclist around the corner.
Jason Haspineall
I cycle eight miles from Walthamstow to work in Thomas More Square where Mary also works and the East Smithfield / Vaughan Way junction is by far the most dangerous part of my route. I've witnessed countless HGVs race through the lights and I'm very much in favour of improved road safety in this area.
jason holt
no headphones. stay ahead of large vehicles at traffic lights. have eyes at back of head. always wear helmet
Jason Humphries
I commute everyday by bike and I have been knocked off quite a few times but taxis and cars. Preventing taxis from stopping in cycle lanes would be a start. A taxi pulls over in front of you and you either have no where to go or overtake into the traffic. Some taxi drivers are often a little aggressive towards cyclists in this way. I have a major gripe against the U turns that they do without signal. I have been hit by three taxis in this manner.
Jen Hoffman
Cycling is my main form of transport, mainly to and from work, but also for leisure. For the most part I do feel safe on the roads, but there are times where i do feel pretty weary of my surroundings. Even though cycle lanes are there, they are normally taken up by cars,skips or other forms of hazards, which forces us into traffic. So there is not really any point in cycling in the cycle lanes to begin with. Big improvements need to be made to make our cities safe for cyclists but for that to happen drivers and cyclists alike need to start paying attenetion to each other! Brilliant campaign,it's about time someone spoke out for us and made people more aware of something that is made out to be a "safe" option, is not always the case! Keep up the great work!!
Jenni Harley
Can I also recommend no motorcycles in cycle lanes? There is one particular point in London, Lower Thames Street, where I sometimes can't get into the cycle lane so I have to take my chances on the road...
Jennifer Hardi
I cycle to work and also leisurely. Cycle path and its safety differ from one area to another. Having a dedicated cycling path sometimes doesn't even guarantee safety. Lots of accident happen especially on cycle path which shared with main/major road. I think it is essential to have a separate cycle path that is not shared with motor vehicles on a major road. It is also important to built cycle path off road. It must also be clearly signposted. It is also important to be tried and tested to prevent this from happening
Jenny Hilder
I frequently travel between Oxford and London (two cities with very different cycling cultures!) and I've got stuck up around London Victoria (Buckingham Palace road) several times because there are so many coaches and buses stopping and starting, moving out around one another at the side of the road, with all the traffic (taxis) racing along as well. Of course, this is just one example of many bad junctions and 'hot spots' in London. In this case, though, I really think the best place to cycle would be in a lane down the middle of the road!
Jeremy Hall
I have cycled to work for many years and over many thusands of miles. I have written many letters to our local MP in Dover (Gwyn Prosser, at the time) about the uselessness of cycle lanes, the dangers presented to cyclists by traffic calming measures (e.g central refuges restricting space, speed ramps that make it necessary to weave across the carriageway, pavement widening schemes, etc..... In many cases the interest of the pedestrian is put before that of the cyclist. I urge you not to ask for ill-conceived measures that make the life of the cyclist more difficult. If a road is wide, leave it that way- my experience is that provided you make yourself visible, if there is enough space the motorist will generally give you a wide berth. It is on narrow country lanes or on roads with regular traffic islands that problems arise. Please do not install features in the name of doing 'something' in order that it can be said by politicians that "something has been done". In many cases it would be best to do nothing at all. Take away all of the clutter and give us all more space and the causes of conflict will be substantially reduced. Lorries are a significant hazard but no more so than impatient drivers of any vehicle- I should know I have cycled in the region of the Dover docks every day for the last 35 years.
jeremy harmsworth
I have been commuting by bicyle for over 9 years over varying routes in London, Oxford and Reading. By far the best are dedicated cycle routes which are car free and pedestrian free. This allows safe passage for the cyclist with no need to dodge around cars or cut between pedestrians. The routes need to be straight forward with good signage and connected up to the next safe route. I also spend time in the Netherlands who have a great attidude to cyclists. Firstly cars give way to bikes!!! also bikes are not seen as the enemy but as an excellent means of travelling. I have yet to see a dutch cylist wearing a helmet or any day glo clothing which speaks for itself in comparison to cylists in London. The cycle lanes in the Netherlands are dedicated to cyclists well maintained and encouraged to be used by all. I think that it is all about attitude to cyclists and encouraging everyone to get on the bikes and give them safe routes to ride with secure parking/ locking facilities in convenient places......have you seen the amount of bikes at Paddington Station?? It is always full!
Jeremy Hayden
for anything less than 7 or 8 miles, it's just plain nicer!
Jerry Hoyte
Robust and effective enforcement of the law with regard to dangerous and reckless driving effecting cyclist safety must be persued along side all the other aims of this camapaign.
Jill Holliday
I love cycling. I've been commuting by bike for a year now but barely a week goes by where I don't see bad behaviour by drivers and cyclists. We need to follow the London Cycling Campaigns plan to cycle more like the dutch - to make more space on our roads for cyclists and as cyclists to be less aggressive in the way we use the roads as well. Its great to see the the Times taking on this campaign.
Jim Harwood
I cycle everywhere, long and short distances. I don't own a car, why should I? Make roads wider to give cyclists room to move!
jim holden
My friend Dan Cox died on his bike on Dalston Junction one year ago yesterday. I am also a keen cyclist, and I think this campaign is wanted and needed.
Jo Hamm
To get to work, I have to cycle for at least 50 minutes a day and my route involves travelling down Chester Road (a rather busy road in Stretford, Manchester) and sharing paths with pedestrians and crossing tram lines. It's not always the vehicles on the road that pose threats to cyclists, it's also pedestrians that don't take any notice of shared paths or other cyclists who feel it's perfectly ok to rally down past unexpecting pedestrians or race through red lights. I cycle not just because I have to but also because I normally enjoy it but when the roads are not safe, it's not always the happiest of journeys.
Jo Hunt
Glad to see the Times moving into an area previously uniquely occupied by the excellent London Cycling Campaign (lcc.org.uk/) I regularly cycle in areas of Islington and Camden which have (supposedly) 20mph limits. It's pointless to suggest them if the Police never ever enforce them
joe heffell
I am now a sufferer of PTSD due to being a victim from a car smashing ito me while I was cycling on a dual carriage way on a sunday mornig at 8.00 am. My smash scarred me for life psychologically. If the car was 5 in to the left or I was 5 inch to the right then I would have been killed ( that's what the police officer told me) when he got the call that a cyclist was hit on the road he thought ,as he knew the roads, that I was seriously hurt or even killed. I was in a local triathlon race, signage all over the place. The young lass that hit me did not want to stop I watched the car drive off as I was writhing on the floor, but it did stop and the driver did walk back cars stopped in that mean time a doctor on his way to his shift at Dorchester Hospital, it took them nearly two hours to get me in the ambulance with all the checks they have to do these days. My wife and son waited at the transition news came through to them that someone was hit on the road they feared the worst as they made their way to the hospital. I am still suffering from lots of side effects from the accident to date. I still cycle but to say the least it's not the same I am so nervous and frightened sometimes I have gone out and come straight back again as I could not cope with the thoughts and all the near missesI have to contend with EVERY TIME I go out. I must say some drivers just have no value for human life, I know some of them would leave you dying in the street if they thought they would get away with it, it's disgusting. This new scheme is a long time coming. We ( cyclists) should all wear head cams so we can get more prosecutions that might change the mindset of the driver who doesn't care.
Johanna Hendry
When I lived in London I commuted everyday to work in the City from Victoria by bicycle and I literally took my life into my own hands, I was knocked off a couple of times but never hurt. Black cab drivers were the most considerate. Buses were the worst! I always wore a helmet. However, I know loads of stories of people who have been injured cycling.
John Hall
I have been a cyclist for over 30 years and in my view cycle lanes should be separated from roads, not just added to an existing road, thus reducing the width for other vehicles. I am positive that we can learn lessons from other European countries.
John Hanna
I cycle daily to work from Shoreditch to Mayfair, can get pretty hairy at times!
John Haslam
I have cycled 10 miles to work since 1976 along a route that for the most part I felt safe on. Recently most of my route has been designated part of the Chilterns Cycleway. At weekends I ride a lot on routes keeping to Ordnace Survey "Yellow" roads. Inevitably no route can completely avoid busy single carraigeway A roads and it is these that have changed a lot. Vehicles are larger, average speeds are legal but higher and traffic is much heavier than 30yrs ago. Replacement of traffic lights and junctions by roundabouts/mini roundabouts has greatly aided traffic flow while creating a very hazardous environment for cyclists. Even a single cyclist riding legally on these roads impedes the traffic flow. Nervous drivers hang back when they could pass and create long tailbacks. Aggresive drivers have shouted at me to get out of the way and pull over. Cycle lanes where available are not "joined up" and unlike some other countries cyclists on such lanes do not have priority over traffic emerging from garages, domestic property, minor side roads. My near misses in the last 10 years have mostly been on roundabouts, particularly mini-roundabouts where drivers either do not see or will not give way to cyclists. I don't think it is practical to make all busy A roads cycle freindly but I do think a focus on critical sections in urban and suburban areas would avoid gaps in otherwise safe cycle routes. These gaps require cyclists to take their life in their hands, go "off road" or break the law and annoy many members of the public by riding on pavements. I am sure that 0.01% of the budget for HS2 would cover this.
Since my father retired in December 2011, I can no longer car share with him to work. In the months leading up to his retirement, I decided to cycle to work in the new year; receiving a road bike as a joint xmas/birthday present. Prior to this, I made mental notes of what cyclists were wearing such as lights, high viz and their approach to riding whilst i was driving. This experience has aided me in my daily commute since January. However, its with much relief that on finishing my ride to or from work, i feel I have survived this particular method of transport. In times where the cost of living and transport is increasing, more people are taking to their bikes in order to reduce costs. Cyclists should not be in fear of their own safety or well being when they have made a decision to choose 2 wheels over 4 wheels. Its a sad indictment when speaking to other cyclists and hear stories of their experiences of near misses, their own accidents or know someone who has been seriously injured/hospitalised whilst riding. I believe not many drivers can make this claim. The state of our roads need to be addressed, where potholes are a serious issue to riders. I fear potholes as much as impatient drivers who wish to over take you. Combine the 2 dangers and your level of concentration to ensure your own safety is magnified. Your Cycling Supplement issued with The Times on 4 Feb 2012 proved very useful in my own cycling and the advice and tips have been put into practice on a daily basis. Thank you. If cycling is going to be successful in this country and as a green option that the government favours then changes in behaviour and attitude will have driven by government. I will be going on holiday to France this year. I look forward to taking my bike with me for the first time. I know I will enjoy taking to my bike and receive the respect i deserve as a fellow road user and human being.
John Helas
Last year I cycled with a group from london to Harwich, hook of holland to Amsterdam, to Breda to Brussels. It was a great experience but the greatest item you notice is the change in quality of cycle surfaces, availabity of cycle lanes and protected areas on roads for safe passage. Within holland we did not ride on one road(apart from crossing them!) and even in to Belgium there was still a high proportion of cycle paths. The enjoyment of riding in such a safe environment when compared to coming out of London and travelling east having to fend off aggressive motorists who want to take a close look in to your back pack! Both professional and everyday drivers could be as bad, thank god not all of them. The year before the same group travelled from London to Paris and surprise surprise the same story. The quality of the roads and courtesy of the drivers to cyclists was noticeably improved from the trip through London to the south coast. We need the Centre Parks model of no cars and only bikes! Knowing in a modern world we have to co-exist lets invest now and every year to develop the infrastructure to allow safe cycling.
John Herrett
Having experienced the dramatic differences in the respect afforded to cyclists and pedestrians in countries such as Canada and Holland, I hope that this worthy campaign will be the genesis of a sea change in attitude towards non-vehicle users in the UK. This would have the more general benefit for cyclists and walkers not just in city centres but across the whole country.
John Holiday
As part of Driving Test,emphasise that cyclists are 'traffic' & have as much right to be on roads as any other vehicle. Compulsory re-tests every five years for all drivers.
John Holland
As a cycling campaign group Portsmouth Cycle Forum supports the recent coverage in The Times. One of your recommendations is to move parked cars away from the pavement so cyclists have a 'buffer' from traffic. A major safety concern we have is the 'echelon' parking on our seafront – from which vehicles reverse blind into traffic. Fortunately we now have offset parallel parking giving cyclists a safe, attractive two-way lane between vehicles and the promenade. But this stops halfway along the seafront, and cyclists – including young children learning to ride – are pushed out onto a busy road, riding behind parked cars. Not surprisingly the more nervous ones take to the pedestrianised promenade! Two years on we're still waiting for the city council to extend the route. If we are to encourage more people to cycle, they need their own safe space on the busiest roads, on quieter roads equal priority needs to be given to cars, bikes and pedestrians.
John Hopkins
I have been commuting to and from work on a daily basis regularly since July 2011 (a return to cycling after many years off the bike), totaling 55 - 60 miles per week. In that time I have been forced off the road twice and have lost count of the number of times I've been involved in (what I can only describe as) 'near misses'. the car drivers concerned have probably forgotten all about these incidents, as they were never really in any physical danger!
John Hudghton
It seems no matter how many bright lights and dayglo vests a cyclist wears, there are still many drivers who fail to see him or her. I have had many near misses because of drivers lacking adequate awareness. Also near Buxton a wonderful cycle trail has been opened on a stretch of disused railway line. The Monsal Trail is a scenic splendour, yet in order to gain access to it cyclists must either drive there with bikes loaded on a car, or risk a five mile cycle along the most cycle unfriendly narrow, bending, heavily used, A6 which carries a lot of heavy traffic. Even for a cyclist of 50 years experience I find this a frightening experience. Something urgently needs to be done to create safe access.
John Hughes
Potholes! - a nightmare for drivers and cyclists alike. Northamptonshire council does pretty well but there are still too many sub-standard roads. AND too many cyclists with no helmet. BUT pleased that cycling seems to be in the ascendancy.
I have only recently got back into cycling for exercise and to cut travelling costs to work. The roads are highly dangerous and you have to be extra vigilant ! Constantly looking out at some junctions it is safer to dismount and cross! I was knocked off at one sometime ago as a motorist pulled around me and hit me at the turning so damaging me and writing off the cycle! This happens all the time i find especially at traffic lights! Getting back on the road with confidence with a organised cycling group is the best way to learn coming back to cycling and have back up support if your bike fails or accident occurs! Solo you run a high risk game of Death Race 2012!
Jon Hicks
I'm 30 years old and have been riding bikes on the public roads for over half of my life. I've been living in London for nearly ten years and, for me, taking to the streets of London was not a big deal - since I'm confident on two wheels. That said, I've been knocked off at least once by a motorist, and nearly knocked off dozens of times by - mostly - taxi drivers and white van man. I'm also careful around drivers of Mercedes Benzes... not sure why - probably because their indicators never seem to work. When I compare notes with other London cyclists, this all seems par for the course. The problem in London at least seems to be a lack of space for everyone who uses the roads and this leads to lots of impatient road users - although it does always seem odd to me that a van driver, car driver or taxi driver will squeeze past you so they can progress 50 yards up the road to join the back of the next queue of traffic! I regularly cycle outside of London though and can confirm that it's not just in the cities that motorists put cyclists at danger. My cycling buddies and I regularly encounter drivers who are too impatient to wait for a safe opportunity to pass you. For this reason we plan our routes to ensure we avoid A roads where possible. I put my bike in my car boot every weekend and drive to Hampshire and Sussex simply to find some quiet B roads and lanes to ride on... and it's hard to avoid vehicles when you plan on doing a hundred miles in a day. I regularly encourage non-cyclist friends to take up cycling, but recall discouraging my ex girlfriend from using her bike to get around town simply because I feared for her safety. The blue strips of tarcmac are a great step in the right direction, but many of them are time-limited (e.g. Mon-Sat 7-7) and it doesn't change the fact that many motorists are plain careless/wreckless/dangerous... semantics at the end of the day.
Jon Howard
Knocked down on a roundabout in Worcester and subsequently had a near-miss on the same roundabout when a police driver failed to indicate.
Jonathan Halliwell
Make cycle lanes on existing roads in London even more visible and prominent.
Jonathan Halls
I am a regular commuter by bicycle. On average I come very close to being knocked off my bicycle by drivers at least three times a week. It is only by the grace of God (and good brakes) that I have not been seriously injured or worse. I fully support this campaign for safer roads for cycling.
Jonathan Hamilton
The road between my home and work has a nice cycle lane. Unfortunately, it is made less than useless by people using it as a handy car park, causing it to become even more dangerous to use than riding down the road, so you aren't swinging in and out of traffic.
jonathan harris
Civilising our roads would make a huge difference not just to cyclists safety but also to the quality of life and environment in our streets, towns and cities.
Jonathan Hill
Currently working as a cycle postman,I experience poor driving with respect to cyclists (or should I say lack of) every day, its not just the lorry drivers. Car drivers cannot seem to wait 2 seconds for a sufficient gap to appear to over take a cyclist, also being ignored when giving clear Signals to turn, especially across traffic i.e. turning right. Also if you over take a car on the correct side drivers just do not expect you to be there even though they moan about cyclists undercutting. The condition of the road where cyclists 'belong' is terrible with put holes, drains
Jonathan Hull
I was knocked off my bicycle in May last year, resulting in a broken shoulder and two broken ribs. A lady driving a transit van turned left from the outside lane causing a direct collision - apparently on a mobile phone at the time. I was lucky as an off duty ambulance was three cars behind me. they stopped and positioning the ambulance in the road to protect me - the crew were outstanding. less outstanding was the driver of the van who failed to stop but was pursued by pedestrians and forced to stop and return to the scene to be arrested. The treatment I received from the Ambulance crew, the police and St Mary's Hospital was truly amassing.
Jonathan Hulme
As a motorist who drives in a town with a lot of cycle lanes on wide pavements I get very cross about lycra cyclists who hold me up by cycling in the road right next to the cycle lanes. If cycle lanes are in place cyclists should be required to use them.
Josh Harfoot
I once got hit by a 4x4 whilst coming round a bend on my bike. The driver was angry at me regardless of the fact he just threw me off my bike 3 foot through the air straight into a garage door. Although I am not happy with how the driver reacted to the incident, I still dont blame him as he probably couldnt see me. What I do blame is the car. 4x4's should have at least one extra mirror somewhere to allow the driver to see any cyclists or pedestrains behind him.
Judith Howell
I was knocked off my bike on 1st Dec 2011 and two months on I'm still struggling with being back on the bike and in traffic. The irony was that I'd chosen to use the bike superhighway that day as I was cycling a bit later than normal, wasn't in the main commuter pack so thought I'd be safer. The driver that hit me said he didn't see me, despite the neon yellow jacket. Classic SMIDSY. He was concentrating on getting through the junction before the lights changed.
Jules Hopkinson
I love cycling and cycle every day. But cycling to work through London every day scares me. I don't want to become another statistic.
julie harrison
I had an accident a few years ago and was very lucky. A bus didnt see me waiting to turn in my right place in the middle of the road and swept right over my side of the road, tried to avoid but fell, caught foot, twisted and resulted broken leg. Sad to hear others not so lucky, lets make cycling safe and seperate like in the Netherlands, would also reduce UK obesity problem.
julie hart
I have been fortunate, but a secretary working alongside me was seriously injured in a similar accident. She was wearing her helmet and flourescent clothing. Her bladder and other organs were punctured by her handlebars, numerous bones broken, she has never returned to work or life as she knew it.
Julie Haworth
Love cycling for the freedom, the exercise, and money saved. Ooh that I could alway s cycle as my mode of travel mostly by car and train during the week
Justine hubbard
I cycle to work every day on a designated cycle path, but suffer from too many pedestrians walking on the cycle path!
Karen Hurden
I fully endorse the campaign for safety for cycling in cities. My son was pinned and dragged along some railings by a lorry who obviously had no knowledge of his presence and drove on. Fortunately there was a gap in the railings and he fell away from the lorry thus saving him from far more serious injuries than the cuts and bruises he sustained. On the other hand cyclists can be a hazard. We live in the historic centre of Bury St Edmunds with narrow pavements and parked cars but I know this happens in all areas of the town. My granddaughter of three was standing beside me on our high doorstep which juts out on to the pavement. I had told her not to move while I closed the door and fortunately she did so. Had she moved off the step and on to the pavement she would have been critically injured or even killed by the large cyclist who raced past the house on the pavement at considerable speed. The parked cars would have prevented him from avoiding her and she would have been hit full on with terrible consequences. I was shaking with the thought of what could have happened. On our street 13/14 year olds regularly swing on and off the pavements on their bikes between parked cards on their way to school and I have been shouted at by a cyclist who felt that cyclists had more of a right to the pavements than pedestrians and I should get out of his way. Although the Highway Code states under Rules for Cyclists (64) 'You MUST NOT cycle on a pavement' Bury St Edmunds Borough Council has introduced By-Laws in a misguided attempt at road safety. By giving permission for cyclists to use SOME footpaths and pavements but NOT providing good signage, the council has created conditions where cyclists of all ages ignore the Highway Code and use pavements all over town as a right and they are dangerous. The police state that the signage is poor. I can only speculate that this is a situation which prevails in other towns and cities. Your survey should also include the number of injuries to pedestrians by cyclists. Also how many have bells or any other means of signalling their approach and also lights. Bicycles should be as roadworthy as cars and helmets compulsory. Cyclists, for their own safety should be trained and tested. I hope that this campaign of yours produces better cycling facilities in cities and towns BUT where it is not possible to provide these, cyclists are prevented from using the dangerous use of the pavements. It is a consequence of the problem that you have highlighted which needs addressing for the safety of cyclists AND pedestrians.
Kate Hart
I cycle to work two days a week and really enjoy it. i used the cycle to work scheme to buy myself a decent bike and equipment so I could be as safe as possible. No incidents to report thank goodness but I am fully behind the Times campaign because cycling in a city can be frightening and I think even more people would take to two wheels if there were more protected cycle paths.
Katharine Hibbert
I have been cycling all my life - not in a particularly sporty way, just because I enjoy it, it seems healthy and it's so convenient. Growing up in Oxford – where there are lots of excellent off-road cycle paths, my dad used to take me to nursery in a child seat on the back of his bike, I used to cycle the few miles to secondary school, and I rode my bike to the Saturday job I had. Since moving to London, I've also usually commuted to work either by bike or by foot – public transport was too expensive when I first got here, and even though I could now afford it, it's just so unpleasant on the tube at rush hour. Plus, I wouldn't get enough exercise if I didn't ride my bike. However, I cycle much less than I could, and I have repeatedly come close to giving up altogether, because I feel so unsafe on the roads. I have been knocked off my bike twice in my five years of cycling in London – I escaped with minor injuries both times, but it shook me up. I now only go by bike when I am confident that I will be on a safer route. I also worry a lot about the safety of both of my sisters, who cycle every day like me. I know that they – like me – are confident but careful cyclists, who know how to navigate the roads. But it only takes a small error – by a cyclist or by a driver – for an accident to happen, and when the accidents do happen, of course the cyclist comes off worse. Things have got to change – it's shameful that so many British cities are so unfriendly to cyclists. Well done to The Times for focusing on this – keep going!
Kathryn Hopkirk
Cycled for years. Fed up with cycling in a gutter that is not fit for a rat. Dare to move out to avoid it and stay on the bike you are abused. Love the country roads but again the surfaces - dreadful -and not just pot holes but black holes - need I say anymore. Respect and education is needed for ALL road users. Safe cycle routes needed. Lets get into a cycle culture like Europe. Despite all of this I love cycling.
Keith Hales
ALL road users need educating that nobody has "right of way" or is entitled to assume the way ahead is clear for them, safety is paramount. UK should adopt European law that motor vehicle drivers are initially assumed to be at fault in collisions with non-motorised road users including pedestrians.
Keith Harding
You already have my story about the death of my son Sam Harding (printed in Times2 9th Feb). I'd just like to add that I have set up a registered charity in Sam's name: Go Make It Happen. It aims to help young people achieve things they would not otherwise be able to achieve without support advice and training, particularly in the world of travel and tourism. It's not specifically about cycling safety, but it's an attempt to build something positive from an unnecessary death caused by the insanity and irresponsibility you so rightly highlight in your campaign (and to which you offer such sensible and achievable solutions). Good luck with it!
Ken Hawes
I lost me niece at a road junction in the city, she was killed by a lorry turning left. She was doing no wrong, the driver just did not see her, he was too high up. We need bright colours on helmets and lights on helmets and more education to the dangers. We MUST stop this slaughter on our roads.
Ken Hawkins
I've been a regular cyclist for around sixty years. Good fortune combined with good road sense meant that the numerous near misses never became more than that. Too many other cyclists have not been so lucky. I applaud your campaign too make the roads safer for cyclists.
Kerion Hunt
As a keen cyclist am in full support of the campaign living in Cambridgeshire and only 7 miles from Cambridge there are many pleasurable cycle paths which the authorities are upgrading .I think more people should be aware of cyclists there should be more signs to let drivers know cyclists are using the roads !!
Kerry hewitt
I cycle to work along the A6 in derby, it is used by many many cyclists and luckily for me I don't pass many left turns or busy junctions. I admire your campaign for safer cycling.
Kester Hodgson
Cycling is always going to be a dangerous way to travel through London. That said, the best way to improve the rate of accident and injury is by educating both riders and drivers alike. I make a 12 mile commute across town and back again every day and wince to see the gambles many cyclists take. A little bit more respect for other road users would save a lot of lives. Likewise drivers should be more aware of the road around them, complacency on the road kills, LOOK AROUND YOU AND BE AWARE...
Kevin Hill
I travel by foot. I'm a pedestrian. On a daily basis I see cyclists run through red lights, or dodging pedestrians using pelican and zebra crossings, so point 5 hits home for me: drivers are already being educated about road use, they need more education on watching for other road users, I agree, but there are no mandatory cycling proficiency examinations where ground level knowledge for how a cyclist should behave on the road can be learnt. Without those you have a dangerous mixture of road users, and the roads are already sufficiently dangerous.
Kevin Hutchins
In the UK we need to get serious as a country about putting money into schemes that separate traffic from cyclists properly and fully and then find ways to reward the cyclist for choosing to travel sustainably (perhaps tax incentives for choosing an eco-friendly mode of transport). Routes need to be built where they are needed and appreciated by a critical mass of cyclists (rather than just built where they'll fit budgets and engineering priorities, which so often appears to be the case). Companies then need to be challenged on how well they cater for employees arriving by bike. My experience is that the changing, locking, ironing and storage (for both bikes and business attire) facilities if they exist at all are usually just token gestures rather than attractive places really designed to encourage the cyclist.
Kirk Hullis
Deliveries are the scourge of the rush hour. In the same way that red-routes in London prohibit vehicles from stopping, cycle lanes on major arterial routes into town should be delivery-van free during rush hour periods- cyclists having to come out into main traffic streams to get around vans and lorries are the main cause of frustration for cyclists and motorists.
Klaus Hinke
I cycle in and around Bedford. My worst moment was at a five-exit roundabout near Bedford railway stn when my wife was nearly run over by a 4W: It was at night, cars entering the roundabout from four sides, drivers had to look out for other cars and one of them saw my wife's bike only when he was a foot away from her.
Laura House
Fingers crossed for Mary Bowers, we are all hoping she recovers soon. Thanks to the Times for raising awareness of lack of cycle safety on Britain's roads!
Laura Hutchinson
A good friend of mine (a doctor) was knocked of her bike last year at a T-junction on a busy town road. A van pulled out on her breaking both her legs, causing damage to her shoulder and an impact head injury, leaving her with temporary loss of memory and constant headaches. Luckily she was wearing a helmet. The van driver was on his phone at the time. This campaign is needed, not just in cities but across the country in small towns and villages too. We need to make drivers more aware of cyclists using the roads, by putting 'Th!nk Bike' road markings at every junction; Increasing the number of road signs indicating cyclist use the route, and educating drivers on how to safely overtake cyclist; a compulsory give '1m distance when over taking' rule should be enforced. We also need to educate cyclist on how they can be better, and safer on the roads. Many cyclists overtake slow moving or stationary traffic on the inside, perhaps not a problem if there's a cycle lane, but when there's not, it's very risky for the cyclist. Many cyclist wear dull clothing, which often makes them blend in with their environment. And many cyclists still don't wear a helmet. Cyclists are the most vulnerable of road users; we deserve more respect from other road users.
Leanne Hughes
My friends father is currently seriously ill in hospital after being knocked off his bike by a car pulling out on him.
Lee Hart
Hello, I believe driving habits need to change throughout the country regarding changes to road safety. The car driver is not the only road user and he/she cannot keep thinking they are king's of the highway.
lee humphries
I have been cycling to and from work now for the past two years, one of the main reasons that I started doing this was because I was sick of using the overcrowded, expensive and very unreliable tube network. What I find hard to believe is how poor cycle ways are in London. I cycle from Greenwich to St Pancras Station every day and there are very few cycle lanes on this route, if the Mayor is trying to encourage us to use our bikes to get to work then why is he not spending money on improving the safety for us cyclists? I also find it difficult to comprehend the level of aggression motorists have towards cyclists, I know they must be very frustrated to be stuck in traffic for hours, if the mayor spent more on improving the cycle ways then perhaps there would be less traffic in London…
Lee Hurrell
Three daughters cycle in London and I am concerned about the lack of provision to make their rides safe. They are doing something about the future but little is being done to ensure that they will have a future!
Les Hoskins
I am a 'returnee' to the bicycle, however only cycle in and around my home town, which on the whole I find quite good. Nevertheless, I find that 'cycle paths' end at the most dangerous part of the road and often vehicles are parked for long periods on cycle paths. Educating the road user to cycling is the biggest challenge
Lesley Hardwick
I travel to work from barnsley to Sheffield for work and cover over 150 miles a week. I feel that I take my life in my hands every time I take my bike out despite being an experienced and sensible cyclist. Last May on my return from work I was run into by a car and ended up unconcious and in hospital with a fractured femur. The motorist admitted to the Police that he had "just not seen me" and he was let off without any charges. I had a lengthy recovery which cost me dear as I work mainly on a freelance basis. I also lost my fitness which has been a nightmare as I `m a club runner and compete up to national level. I`ve not been able to compete since. I thought that I`d had a rough time but I`m on the road to recovery unlike a friend from another running club in Barnsley. She sadly died on Frday 13th January on a bike ride between Barnsley and Wakefield. She d only been married for 3 months and we can t imagine how her husband who is also a club runner is possibly coping with his loss. Its time to sort this issue out once and for all.
lesley hobbs
Didnt realise that my cycling accident would make give me the warm feeling that I'd joined a rather exclusive club. Maybe not so exclusive.Semi rural location.Car emerging suddenly from layby.My self unable to stop or avoid collision.Over the bonnet, compression fracture of L1 vertibrae which still 3yrs later gives me problems though I still keep cycling.Could have been much worse! His head was turned the other way, listening not looking . To me ,this was the crucial mistake.
Lesley Hutchings
Castle Hill in Dover has cycle lane, spread apart and only a few metres long. These are alongside the pedestrian islands in the middle of the road. I am guessing that the ONLY point of these is that when a cyclist gets knocked off his bike by a car trying to overtake by a traffic island, he can effectively sue (or his family can if he is dead). What a waste of time and money putting these in. These kow-tows to be shown to be 'greening up' make a mockery of the council and highways departments. Just do it properlyand keep cyclists away from traffic!
Linda Hawkins
Whilst in Romania, where busy roads are shared by HGVs, cars, bicycles and carts and horses, a cyclist turned across our vehicle. We expected a fatality but the result fortunately was no more than a mangled bike and a wild man waving I machete! not a nice experience for driver or the careless cyclist!
Liz Hayter
i cycle 15 miles a day to work & back and a few weeks ago i got hit by a car on a quiet roundabout, i was lucky i could hear the car was to close and only got slammed side on so stayed on the bike, the driver said he didn't see me....i wear fluorescent yellow jacket, reflectors and had lights on so not sure how he didn't see me, i was very shook up as you can imagine. i support The campaign whole heartedly
Liz Heaton
I am a regular cyclist, but don't drive. I cycle halfway to work (Teddington to Barnes, through Richmond Park), leave my bike and get the train the rest of the way in because the main roads into London are so unpleasant. The combination of commuting cyclists and commuting cars, buses and HGVs is fraught with danger. On less energetic days I get Boris Bike from Vauxhall Station to Victoria, and the cross roads on the north bank of the river is so badly designed from a cyclists perspective I feel I'm taking my life in my hands every time I go across it. However one of my biggest bugbears is seeing cyclists breaking the highway code or otherwise winding motorists up as this makes it less safe for the law abiding, considerate majority of cyclists. For example most lycra clad road bike users do not use the cycle path along Priory Lane because they have to go a little slower, it's quicker for them on the road but slows down all the cars, encourages dangerous overtaking and makes motorists tar all cyclist with the same brush. Equally, on the same stretch of road, parents in huge 4x4s stop at roundabouts, park on pavements, block road junctions to allow their pampered offspring to be dropped off as close as possible to their school, causing cyclists to have to brake suddenly or swerve out into traffic to avoid them. Common sense and good manners on both sides would be a good starting point,along with an understanding that getting there first isn't the main aim, then add sensibly designed road junctions and wide enough cycle lanes to allow for pothole avoidance.
Liz Howadr
More cycle lanes, and biiger fines on parking in cycle lanes. I cycle in an out of Manchester City Centre and would like to see alternative routes which avoid having to use Carriage ways and ring roads.
Liz Huelin
In Australia the law to wear a cycle helmet has been in place for many years and was brought in successfully to save the death of cyclists. Similar to seat belts only a law will persuade people to cycle in safety. To those that argue that it is against 'freedom of choice' I say what is freedom if you are dead!
Louise Huby
I cycle to work in Glasgow, I am lucky enough to have an offroad cycle route and it is fantastic. The only problem is that I can't use it in the winter when it is dark and having tried the road and had several near misses I have had to abandon cycling until we get more daylight in the evening. A friend of mine was seriously injured by being hit by not one but two cars in November when he was waiting to turn right at some traffic lights on his bike. The car from behind catapulted him into oncoming traffic. He luckily espcaped without major head injuries but will never fully recover. Cycling is and easy solution to obesity, pollution, traffic jams, and certainly lifts my mood with a bit of exercise. It is such an obvious answer to so many problems but is so widely ignored by politicians it is farsicle. Pedestrians have pavements, cars have roads, cyclists have death and serious injury.
Lucy Holmes
Only this morning, as I cycled my regular route to work, I was almost thrown off my bike by a car passenger. A young girl's father had stopped at the zebra crossing outside her school, to allow her classmates to cross. While stopped, the girl in the passenger seat threw open her car door into my path. Luck, dry conditions and (modestly) my awareness avoided a collision that would have hurt us both. It's not uncommon. Traffic cams on Advanced Stop Zones, more consistent and separate cycle paths, and better driver/motorcyclist/lorry driver/bus driver/pedestrian awareness would all help.
Lucy Hurn
I am a keen cyclist and cant imagine London without my bike. However I only started cycling regularly relateivly recently, and probably only because I has friends to cycle with that got my confidence on the roads up, til I was happy to cycle by myself. I am always sad to see how few females there are waiting at the traffic lights with me, and indeed, any of my female friends who says they would be keen to cycle more, generally follows it with 'but i'm too scared on London's roads'. Its such a shame, i get so much enjoyment, as well as satisfaction from physical exercise and reduction in carbon emissions, I wish the roads were safer to others could share my enjoyment, particularly other females.
Lynette Homer
I think priority traffic lights are a terrific idea. Sadly it is often safer to go through the red, after pedestrians have crossed. I suggested this ti TFL recently. You never know what you're going to get with black cabs. Some taxi drivers are understanding. Once, one showed me where to position myself at the Holborn Circus light so it was safer to go around. But there are a lot of grumpy old ******** who don't think twice about cutting you off, stopping in the cycle area at a light, and turning into your space just to get in line for the cab rank or another red light. Thanks for this video and campaign. I'm generally a safe and alert cyclist, but I need to be ever vigilant. I always call my husband before leaving work to let him know. I really don't want a discussion about what's for dinner to be our last.
m harrington
need more cycle paths that are segregated by brick not just a white line
M Healey
Why, via the planning process, is there not, on granting new build or significant improvement schemes, a requirement to provide safe cycle routes, separate to the running lanes?
M Holligan
1. Fill in pot holes 2. stop putting bus stops and crossing lights on concrete protrusions that narrow the road way 3. Ensure that all new road developments have a cycle path. Not ones that necessitate stopping and starting every time a side road or entrance is crossed. 4.Stop sharing cycle paths with roadside parking
mahmood hussain
As a regular cyclist in Rotherham I get abuse daily from high rate motorists we need to change our road infrastructure and as part of passing a test must include awareness around cycle safety
Malcolm Harris
The main thing that shocks me is how other people on the road consider cyclists not to have the right to be there. The main thing that is going to make the streets safer is having more and more cyclists out there, which obviously also has many other positive affects for society. The success of campaigns like this encourage that to happen.
Malcolm Harrison
I have been cycling for 10 years. I have had more close shaves than I can count and have been hit by cars twice: once by a car that pulled onto a roundabout a hit me; the second when a driver in a van came around a tight country lane corner on the wrong side. I have just returned from Brisbane, Australia where cycling is more common and money has been invested in separating bikes from cars. More people cycle, many cyclists drive, cars treat cyclists with more respect, so cycling is safer, and more people cycle. It's a virtuous circle but it starts, not with more investment in roads, but on changing the investment priority to favour bikes.
Malcolm Hunt
I've been cycling on the road since I turned 12, and I've watched London fall way behind many other European (and some UK) cities in terms of being bicycle friendly. Many years ago, I also had to attend the funeral of one dear friend who died in the wheel arch of a juggernaut, whose driver didn't see her commuting home. It is getting worse out there, not better, with so many easy but logical street adjustments opportunities going unnoticed and not being implemented. All too often, the powers that be seem to disregard the knowledge that comes from the vast experience pool of cyclists who run the gauntlet of using our capital's streets every day. The congestion charge doesn't actually seem to do what it aimed to do, and many people are afraid to cycle who otherwise would, and as a time served urban rider I totally get why. Please let more people feel confident of riding our streets, and help us all to breathe cleaner air. Also, it would let legitimate business vehicles get around faster if you can encourage the private motorist out of their cars. They represent a heck of a lot of wasted road space just to transport single occupants. M. Hunt.
Marc Hand
I cycle to work every day from my home in Norton my place of work in Hartlepool, this is around a 10 mile journey. This ride takes me on the Tees Road which is a main road feeding the busy petrochemical sites of Seal Sands. The road is very narrow with no street lighting and I have experienced and saw at first hand some near misses involving cyclist with HGVs and cars. A designated cycle path and street lights would make this stretch of road 100% safer. Colleague at my works have also stated that these inprovements would encourage them to take up cycling to work.
Margaret Hopkinson-Woolley
If we cyclists are going to be shown respect on the roads, we must behave! We must have lights when needed. We must use hand signals. We must not ride through red lights. We must not ride on pavements or two abreast. A taxi driver in London last week reffered to cytclists in London as VERMIN. he said they disobey all the rules of the road. I know cyclists should be fined if caught and the bike impounded. This is difficult for the police but something must be done to control dangerous cyclists. Remember that cycling is good for the environment as well as health.
Marie hatton
In Germany cycle lanes are built into paths and seperate from cars. It cannot be that difficult to insist any new roads follow this strategy and when utility companies dig up roads they are put back with cycle lanes as part of the path. I have three children who all have bikes but I don't encourage then to ride on the roads. We drive to safe areas where cars are not allowed to be able to bike
Marjorie Homer
I prefer cycling in safer cities like York, or on cycleways, provided with the support of Sustrans. In most cities I prefer to walk.
Mark Elliot Anstruther Heal
I am so angry today as I hear that my elderly friend has just been knocked off her bicycle by yet another speeding motorist.
Mark Hambleton
Very good campaign. Not just dangerous on the roads. Recently a cyclist was knocked off his bicycle on the Bristol / Bath cycle path. His bicycle was stolen.
mark hancock
I have been cycling to work and for leisure, and have raced in time trials on the road over the last 26 years.I also work as an hgv driver in the surrey and london area i believe i am one of the few people who can see this issue from both sides,drivers over the years seem to get more and more argessive in there driving style i think this is due to car makers making there cars ever more powerful with better brakes which in turn makes drivers brake later and drive faster.When i am cycling passed parked cars which may at any moment open a door,or if i am riding bewteen bollards i am nearly always being overtaken by drivers who cannot wait until it is safe to overtake.I think everyone who takes a driving test should be made to cycle on the roads under expert supervision for a month,also all present hgv drivers should be made to sit a cycle course both practical and theory.lorry design needs to change they need to be fitted with solid side skirts rear view cameras and front view mirrors and a left hand sensor that bleaps when someone cycles or walks up the inside of the lorry.cyclists need to be be trained in safe riding not to ride up the inside of lorrys waiting at lights.cyclists need to ride with more consideration for other road users do not ride two or three abreast when traffic comes up behind you,stop at red lights,it meens stop not go for cyclists.
mark harrington
Agreed, every cyclist should wear a helmet, because it makes sense too.
Mark Harrison
Forward lines for bikes needed at all traffic lights. Compulsory part of test for all lorry drivers to be aware of their speed, distance and bow wave of air pressure caused by driving too fast on single carriage ways. Perhaps put them on a stationary bike, have a multi-ton lorry drive by them with only inches clearance!
Mark Hartley
Been cycling in London every day now for 2 years and have only ever had accidents with pedestrians. They seem to think wondering into the road without looking is perfectly normal..
Mark Harvey
Too dangerous in towns and cities - found equally dangerous in villages and surrounding countryside - specifically during school run times
mark haughton
I am an emergency services cyclist. Train staff on central London roads and cycle around heathrow. One way to make cycling safer would be to give cyclists at junctions 5-10 seconds head start to clear the junction before the motor vehichles start.
mark heady
I cycle to work using the biketowork scheme provided by my company baker hughes...everyday i have to navigate one of the most dangerous roundabouts in the country (Hadigan). Please make cycling as safer....
Mark Hiscock
I've been commuting on a weekly basis for 8 years now and cycling is a wholly enjoyable experience. I've noticed more cyclists on the roads, even through winter months, which is great. Most motorists are considerate and give ample room when passsing. The odd few will beep their horns when they're annoyed at finding you in their way. This happens very rarely though.
Mark Hopper
I have been cycling to work for over 20 years in London. There has been a definite deterioration in the consideration given to cyclists by motorists. In 1987, I carelessly went into the back fo a car, damaged my bike and fell off. The driver and other drivers stopped and made sure I was alright. Recently I suffered a serious accident after a driver drove into me at a roundabout. Not one driver stopped to help.
Mark Hudson
My experiences of cycling on British roads for over 15 years has taught me that there are both poor drivers and poor cyclists. I often hear, ''cyclists run red lights'', ''cyclists ride on pavements'' etc. As a driver and a cyclist I can sum mass equal occasions of poor driving. We in Britain, need to create a shared road environment where respect for each other is reciprocated and help encourage safer use of our roads.
Martin Haigh
Dutch colleagues at work tell me that in the Netherlands a pedestrian or cyclist is automatically assumed innocent, and a car driver guilty, in any accident involving them. This, they say, makes an enormous difference to drivers' attitudes.
martin hayton
I commute by bike into London everyday: 20 miles round trip. I have been knocked off twice. Fortunately I only needed an ambulance the first time when parked van pulled out into the road without indicating or looking. The second time I thought the driver of the car was going to be the one needing one as he looked like he was about to have a heart attack as he was a complete wreck! There have been very many more near misses clipped by motorbikes, pedestrians wandering out into the road etc. My partner and all of my friends whocycle regularly have had similar experiencs. I have learned that car drivers are not looking for traffic: they are looking for no car. Pedestrians do not look before crossing the road: they listen. Accordingly we need to make them aware that cyclists are road users too. I have noticed the huger increase in the number of cyclists on the roads. This is having an impact in that sheer numbers is helping to make other road uses more aware of us. Unfortunately many of the "fair weather" cyclists seem to lack any form of trainning or experience, no lights, no hiviz and no helmets. It can be quite fightening to watch some cyclist meanding down the road oblivious to the fact that they are sharing it with large vehicles whichb could kill them. People onthe Boris Bikes do seem to the worst: I am convinced that they think they are on the tube and therefore immune from possible injury on the road. The number of deaths and accidents is unacceptable but I am surprised that it is not actually more! Drivers do not want to hit or kill us (the bike scratches the paintwork) so we must ensure that we are as visible as possible to them and there are campaigns to remind drivers that there are cyclists on the road: we should not be tucked away at the edge of the road by the kerb like some dirty little secret but given proper space to cycle safely. When cycling I try to leave a good foot or two from the kerb to allow space to dive to the edge should something get too close - thank God the bendy buses have gone as they were the absolutely worts to be overtaken by. I do wish that the very good cyclists would lead by example, stop at the lights, and behave with respect to other road users, stop for the pedestrians at the crossings and not cycle on the pavements etc. All cyclists do these things sometime but it should be the exception to avoid trouble rather than the norm, because we can and it is easier to keep going than to have to stop and there is no penalty. I am at a loss as to why people assume that cyclists must alwys have to get to the front of every queue: it can be safer to hang back behind traffic rather than squeeze up the inside especially if the car is not indicating. People often justify not stopping at lights by saying it is safer to do so: I would generally disagree unless you are turning right. Seeing the same people regularly on my commute I notice how bad habits begin to creep in particularly in relation to stopping at traffic lights: initially theyb stop and wait; then they stop, check for traffic and then jump the light; until eventually they just run the light as it doesnt matter whether traffic is coming: it appears that it is for the car driver not to hit them rather than the cyclist themselves. Perhaps because I have encountered my own mortality, bouncing on the bonnet of a car is not actually as much fun as it may sound, through no fault of am more concious of the need not to put myself in any more danger than I am already in by simply cycling in London. The provision for cyclists in London (let alone on suburban roads) is appalling and hopefully your campaign will be the turning point but as cyclist we too have a responsibilty to use the roads properly and to show respect and courtesy for other road users. In addition children should be encouraged to have proper and regular training as part of the school curriculm.
Martin Hill
I'm a 50 year old bald git, and have just taken up cycling again. I've been using the so called 'Cycle Superhighway 8' in London - it's so unsafe for cyclists - I would never be able to recommend my kids do the same. We HAVE to do something to protect bodies before bodywork!
Martin Hunt
Thankfully don't have to cycle in London but do travel Letchworth to Hitchin everyday. I regularly see car drivers on the mobile whilst driving, stop suddenly without reason and the most dangerous overtaking through a pedestrian crossing near the station and then immediately turning left - I now keep to the middle of the road before the crossing so there is no way they can pull that trick and knock me off. I also see cyclists who ignore red lights (who I usually shout at), don't wear helmets visible clothing or have lights in dark conditions. I do my best to be seen, best to look an idiot than being a dead idiot. My father used to own a haulage company I have been in large trucks and know the visibility issues and how wide they need to turn - never undertake a large vehicle and give them space at lights. Us cyclists need more help with proper separate lanes and other infrastructure but we also need to respect other road users, play by the rules and keep ourselves safe.
Martin Hutt
I started cycling again about 4 years ago as a leisure activity mainly along dirt tracks, however to do this I still have to use roads to get to my destination and this is the most frightening part of my ride. Cars parked in cycle lanes, wagons unaware of you, buses blasting their horns because your using the bus lane, cars trying to be first away from sets of traffic lights more interested in beating the car in the outside lane than giving the cyclist enough space and even when there is a cycle lane cars still drive into it to get past a car turning right without ever considering that there is a rider already there, these are just a few things that have happened to me. It's a wonder that I have kept up my leisure activity but why should I give it up when I have as much right to ride the roads on a bike as a car, lorry or bus. So far I thankfully have not had a serious accident but if nothing is done to help the cyclist I do wonder how long it will be before I'm sat in a hospital bed. You have my full support in this campaign and only hope you can make the roads safer for every cyclist.
Martyn Harby
I commute regularly from my home in Crosby to Liverpool city centre (approx. 6-7 miles). Liverpool city centre is not particularly cycle friendly although things are slightly improving on a gradual basis. There are some decent cycle lanes here, some poorly designed ones with the major factor being a dislocated infrastructure. City councils and departments of transport have to wake up to the reality that cycling is fast becoming a popular mode of transport in the UK and they need to address it sooner rather than later. My message: visit Copenhagen or any major city in Germany to see how it is propoerly done.
Martyn Holland
I no longer live in London but cycled for 2 years before I left to live here in Barcelona. Everybody here complains about the roads here, but they are childsplay compared to London! There are decent cycle lanes, segregated, across large parts of the city. Although the new right wing mayor apparently hates cyclists... London could be SUCH a fantastic city. If only it could be taken back from the motorists who are ruining it. More cyclists, and pedestrians = happy people :)
Marvin Hurst
I have been knocked off my bike on two occasions by cars crossing my wright of way. The first a car turned wright accross my path, I ended up on the bonnet knocking out the windscreen, the second time a car came out of a side turning and I went over the bonnet landing several yards past the car, going through my mind was that this was going to hurt more than the last time (it did). On another occasion a car overtook me on country road but came close enough hit me with the wing mirror knocking the cover off, the driver failed to stop, I gave chase hoping the car might be held up, a coupke of minutes later I managed to flag down a police car going in the opposite direction, he went to turn round to give chase, in the mewantime the car that hit me had turned round and passed me going back but did not stop, stoped the police car as he pased me having turned round and then gave chase, the driver had returned to pick up his wing mirror. I caught up with him. He never appologized and despite the police presence the driver was not prosecuted. In my opinion many of the cycle lanes are of no assistance to cyclists. There is an epidemic of cyclists at night in dark clothing with no lights. There seems to be no action taken against this.
Matt Higgins
More bike lanes in London please! The more distance you can help to put between myself on a bike and a motorist ravaged with road rage the better!
Matt Hill
I currently cycle to work 14 miles each way, 4 days a week. I've cycled to work for 23 years, fallen off on black ice once, been knocked off my bike by cars 3 times but never been hospitalised. I keep myself as visible as possible, get frustrated by being knocked off and angry when it turns into a hit and run. I believe my personal health and financial benefits far outweight the risks. I applaud any action to reduce these risks further and spread those benefits to more people as they cycle more.
Matt Hodges
Good to see your interest in cycling safety. All support is welcome but remember some of us have been campaigning for cycle safety for a long time. Don't get the idea you can see what is needed. Listen to the experts at CTC. Rushing in with the best of intensions can cause more harm. The bicycle helmet initiative trust is a case in point. Their misguided campaigning only serves as a distraction from the real problems. Half an inch of polystyrene round my head won't be much good if I go under the wheels of a truck. Helmets only give a false sense of security while at the same time making cyclists appear as an alien species that can be endangered by motorists without any feeling of guilt. Support training on both cyclists and drivers together with stricter liability when drivers allow their vehicle to injure anyone whether pedestrian, cyclist or other vehicle occupant.
Matt Holbrook-Bull
In October I gave up powered transport after not having been on a bike for 20 years. Since then I've lost 1.5 stone and cover over 300 miles a month. Being an IAM motorcyclist as well, I like to think I have exceptional observation and hazard perception skills. It astounds me to witness first hand how ruthlessly aggressive some car drivers are to cyclists. It's like riding through a war zone.
Matthew Harbord
Cycling in London is considerably easier for me than most. Being young and relatively fit it's possible to keep up with traffic and be assertive on the road to protect myself. Last month, before taking part in a charity bike ride to raise money for St Thomas's ICU, I accompanied my fiancé in collecting a bike from a friend for the day. Meandering back through the city streets with a relative novice at 8 miles per hour was a terrifying experience for us both and I would urge all proficient cyclists to try it some time to really experience what cycling can be like for the less practised. Even as an experienced rider I've had my fair share of scary moments. Most notably an HGV that started to move off Lambeth Bridge and into the space on the roundabout I was about to occupy. Thankfully my shouting attracted enough attention for the driver to stop – it was one of the only times I've truly felt that there was literally nothing I could do to save myself; nowhere safe to move, no space to stop. Cycling shouldn't be like this. It shouldn't feel like a battle where a part of me is thankful for making it safely to my destination. My colleagues and friends who do commute by bike are universally male and not one of us would feel comfortable if our partners also rode to work – we're not misogynists, simply horrified at the thought of our loved ones being exposed to the risk of the roads. They probably feel the same way about us.
Matthew Hesketh
It's dangerous the way cars will pass so close to you as you cycle. i take the dual initiative to stay a good distance from the kerb, to avoid the crap and bumps near the edge and to give myself room if the situation requires it.
matthew hindmarsh
i ride regular and the facilitys for cyclists are none exsistent really the roads are in very poor condition and the only people really helping are the ctc and sustrans which i feel should have a lot more backing from the goverment they need to dig deeper
Matthew Hopkins
A regular cyclist myself, I have worked in the cycle industry for over 15 years and seen little change in the conditions that UK cyclists face on the roads daily. Having lived and travelled in Europe as well, I can note distinct differences in the infrastructure which, while far from perfect is certainly superior in many ways to the situation in the UK. Having said that, Britain is getting better, but there is still a long way to go.
Matthew Houlihan
You could fit lorries with a sensor to alert the driver to cyclists beside them before they turn left at junctions. Maybe an additional mirror on the left hand side of lorries, angled specifically to allow the driver to see if there is a cyclist, could also help. Both ideas would need regulation to work but would be relatively cheap to install.
Matthew Hughes
Almost squashed by a bus last week cycling along Oatlands Drive in Weybridge. The traffic calming measures force the traffic and cyclists together at pinch points effectively using cyclists to control the speed of other vehicles. Crazy.
Matthew HUntley
Unfortunately nearly dying while cycling on London roads is an almost daily experience. In the last 12 months I've had more close calls than I can count, but most memorably: I've been hit by a black cab in Regents Park. He swerved into me and it was a miracle I was able to stay upright and not be dragged under his wheels. The taxi then fled the scene. I've watched another black cab nearly squish my girlfriend on her bike in the Haymarket in central London. The cabbie, who had passengers at the time, then threaten to kill me for having the temerity to challenge his behaviour. I've been monstered by numerous drivers who uniformly it seems view cyclists as expendable. A huge remarkable percentage of these instances have involved BMW's. What is it about BMW drivers? I've witnessed a BMW series nearly kill a woman cyclist in Stoke Newington. The driver had his children in the car at the time, and jumped out and threatened to kill her after she yelled at him! I've been cut off and forced into the gutter by buses. I've had doors opened on me... White vans cut me off, swerve at me, drivers swear at me. The list is endless, and sadly all to common. My experiences are nothing unusual to anyone who rides daily in London. Solutions? More cycle lanes that actually go somewhere, that are properly maintained and policed. Where possible they should be separated from other road users by raised concrete barriers. The most dangerous junctions UK wide, which have been identified now I'm sure, need to be redesigned with cyclists in mind. A separate set of lights that allow cycle traffic to set off on before other traffic possibly? The law regarding jumping red lights should be reviewed. I think cyclist should be allowed to jump red lights provided junctions are clear. However pedestrian traffic should ALWAYS have right of way. I'm tired of watching other cyclist, particularly in London jump lights as a matter of course without regard for pedestrians. Oh and it's an adjacent issue, but many more bike locks and secure bike storage. I've had 4 bikes stolen in London down the years. Bike theft in the capital is out of control. Nationwide I think the whole approach to cycling needs to be reappraised. As a mode of transport it seems to begriming exponentially. It's vital that infrastructure take this into account and quickly. The numbers of cyclist killed on the roads in the last few years is starting to look like a slaughter.
Matthew Hurford
I've been lucky, my only close shave in 2 years of cycling everywhere was a passenger opening the car door as I was cycling up the inside of a traffic jam, I went over the handlebars but landed on my feet. Someone pointed out that if you are waiting at traffic lights on the inside of a lorry which is turning left the driver might not be able to see you, if the lorry turns left what could you do to get out of it's path? Sensors might help and so would training drivers and cyclists on this danger.
Melanie Hudson
Hull is a great place for cycling but more can always be done. More cyclists on the road will make cycling safer so get on a bike and start pedalling.
Melissa Holloway
I regularly bike around London. I get shouted at an average of once a week by someone who thinks I should get out of the road. When I'm feeling feisty, I shout back, "Have you ever been hit by a car door? I have every right to be in the road!" Driving safely around cyclists should absolutely be part of the driving test.
Michael Hanley
It is an absolute disgrace that safe cycling facilities are so sparse.Well done to the Times for raising this issue in such a prominent way. There is a pressing need for bold action.My route to work has been made progressively more dangerous over the years - not safer! You only have to look at the island introduced in the middle of Hornsey High Street, which makes cars sharply swing in to the left of the road and in fact forces cars into a bus/bike lane. That is a perilous road design for cyclists.
Michael Hanson
But is is not just the streets nor is it just London. Why is it so much more pleasurable to cycle in France than in UK? French motorists are so much more competent when they encounter a cyclist than their British counterparts. Bad experiences, a regular cyclist cannot remember them all. The motorist who overtakes just before a roundabout or road junction then brakes sharply into your braking zone or even, (yes I've had this) tries to overtake through a roundabout, these you just accept and forget about.
Michael Hirst
Oxford is a good example of a city that makes enough space for cyclists, the lanes dedicated to cyclists in London need to be wider but even better would be to create cycle paths that keep cyclists and motorists away form each other especially at tricky junctions
Michael Hirst
I cycle 9km to work along the Uxbridge Road to Shepherds Bush. Don't know who laid the tarmac(ealing council?) but it makes for a bone-crunching commute. Cycle lanes are great when cars don't park in them or ignore them altogether. And wing mirror use should be a more focal part of driving lessons. The amount of times I've had to swerve to avoid a car door swinging open into the road makes me think it's only a matter of time before I come a cropper... Good luck with the campaign, and thoughts and prayers to Mary Bowers for a full recovery.
Michael Holland
My story regards the attitude of motorists toward cyclists. A number of times I have had people yelling obscenities out of their cars without provocation. Then there are the countless instances of incessant horn blasting motivatied purely by the inconvenience of having to slow to pass a cyclist. The main problem is a lack of respect from motorist, there is a failure to realise that cyclists are very vunerable. In a collision between car and bike there will only ever be one winner. As a cyclist you always have to be alert and aware of what is happening around. If drivers excersised the same level of caution and respect as cyclists then I have no doubt that cycling would be far safer.
Michael Holmes
Cyclists are too dependent on the behaviour of motorists. Too often motorists overtake at lightning speed with only a metre or less space. I have often been overtaken my lorries with hardly any space to then see a sign on the back of the lorry saying "do not undertake". The irony is astonishing.
Michael howard
Just simply caught a bug by getting me and wife out on bike in fresh air with our 2 year old in his trailer. We use the trans Pennines trail between Altrincham and warrington. This summer was simply beautiful having long bike rides and picnics. Now riding into manchester for work (11miles) from hale and feel amazing for doing so. We're lucky as the cycle paths are great but the fumes and traffic are not good. Dedicated cycle lanes as opposed to bus lanes on all main roads would work. Also, get the potholes sorted. Only really realised they were there since riding!
Michee Hart
Two weeks ago I was riding a bike for the first time in many years in the city of Aurich in Germany. AS I cruised/wobbled along the perfectly maintain extensive network of cycle paths I was overtaken by grannies and children (I'm a novice!) and as the mum of two young lads who cycle I despair of this country. Why oh why don't we invest now for a future, healthier, greener generation? Let's face it my pre teen kids aren't going to be able to afford cars (or if they can they won;t be able to afford insuriance) but a bike has to be the best way for them and indeed anyone to get around. Except it's just NOT safe on our roads. Do I encourage my kids to ride the paths?
Micky Hitchen
I have been hit and run whilst on my bike(s) ...!! I now use a mountain bike and avoid main roads....so I can come home at the end of the day.!! Cyclists need legislative laws to protect their right to ride on roads..!!??
Mike Hall
As you may be aware Birmingham is some what lagging behind with public transport, the least connected of the big cities. Most people feel ownig a car is a given. As a cyclist its extremely dangerous on the roads but not doubt quicker. I wish our local council had the vision of leading by example and taking it to the government. More cycle lanes, pedestrian zone, cycle paths and tax breaks for public transport users.
Mike Hardiman
Two simple steps that could be taken to improve cycle safety that should be self funding are: Fine heavily vehicle drivers that stop or park on cycle lanes Fine vehicle drivers who drive onto cycle lanes that are just painted lines on the road in the same way as if they had crossed double white lines Best wishes with your campaign. Please keep they pressure up. Mike - Warwick
mike head
I cycle in to central London for work every day and am constantly under threat from vans and trucks. I make a habit of avoiding HGVs and vans and will hang back as opposed to cycling up the left of the vehicle. I know the risks. However sometimes, despite making eye contact with drivers of HGVs and vans, they generally see it as a game to chase/harass the cyclist by driving too close - it's just the way it is. I love how in the Netherlands and Denmark there are cycle lanes completely separate from the roads and a few exist here in London, which I use. When cars want to turn left or right over the cycle paths, in Scandanavia (because laws favour cyclists) all drivers slow right down and check right and left for cyclists. In London however, a lack of knowledge of the cycle paths' existence means vehicles just turn left and don't even look for cyclists. Taxis even do it, so there's no hope! They should know about the roads better than other folk. e.g. Byng Place and Gordon Street Junction near Russel Square. And as for cars stopping in the green boxes at traffic lights designated for cyclists, they may as well not exist. Laws need to be changed to make it a safer place to cycle. I do believe many cyclists take too many risks and behave dangerously too. Both sides need to respect one another!
Mike Hills
Already lost one friend to an accident on Oxford St involving a bus - don't want to lose Mary or anyone else.
milton hussey
I cycle to work & pledge my support cycle safe
morgan hayes
Hopefully i'm not the first to have said this but i strongly feel there should be an outright ban on cyclists listening to I pods. i've witnessed one unfortunate collision arising from this.In effect the cyclist is minus their hearing and is of great danger to themselves and others around.
Mrs Avril Howell
My husband and I travelled mostly in France during the 1990's. We have riden our bikes in most of french cities and always felt very safe. The lorries, cars and buses respect cyclists on the continent and I cannot see why the same cannot be done in UK.
Naomi Hobbs
I cycle to work, 8 miles every day and have been very lucky so far. Will do anything to support the campaign.
Nat Hunter
This is a great campaign.... thank you. I cycle every day in London and have far too many near misses.
Neil Hall
The UK needs to take lessons from mainland Europe on improving road conditions for cyclists, it is a growing trend and a cheap alternative to the congestion problem if we can make it safer to ride the streets.
Neil Halliday
I cycle to work each day and have been doing so for the past two years. I think People need more encouragement to get out and ride. In all honesty my route is quite safe I've only been hit slightly three times in two years. My only concern is the state of our roads. To cycle in most of Europe must be a dream compared to the uk.
Neil Heggie
I commute 30 odd miles a day and cycle recreationally. Build it into your everyday life to save money, keep fit and to see places in a different light. We need the British public to respect cycling as a credible mode of transport. We also need the great British public to respect cyclists. This would make our streets safer, promoting cycling as a viable and fun travel mode. It would do a lot for the sport too.
Neil Holloway
drivers simply dont care for cyclists. Most don't even know it is perfectly legal to side 2 a breast and even if they did wouldnt careless. I'd ban horns in cars.
Nicholas Hargreaves
More bikes, less cars
Nick Hales
In Bath a long running campaign against cyclists has been coordinated by a small but vocal minority in the Bath Chronicle letters column. The major issue is shared pavements. Having travelled around Europe and seen the degree to which pedestrians and cyclists are alowed to share pavements I would like to se emore of this. Clearly the statistics in your article on February 2nd showed that serious injury is three times more likley in England than the Netherlands and twice as likley as Germany. Florence for instance has shared pavements along the road by the river. They do not appear to be controversial.
Nick Hatchard
I have nearly been creamed a few times, once by a lorry on the A404, and I buried my wheels in to the curb preferring to go over the handle bars than face the consequences as I felt the lorry creap up on me. I actually find bus drivers to be fairly aware of cyclist, but taxi drivers during the week are wreckless, and weekend rides with the club almost always lead to a near miss between some driver in the 4x4 or sports car in a hurry to overtake too many cyclist in one go whilst shouting abuse. I do feel very strongly about the number of cyclists that are either unaware of the rules of the road or just abuse the red lights however, as for anyone who commutes through London sees, around 70% of people jump the lights which damages the reputation of the cyclist no end, which needs to stop. Make cycling safer!
Nick Hedges
I live in Islip which is a village about 8 miles outside Oxford. Each day I commute by bike-even through the winter. I see kingfishers in the brooks and tonight (7th February) there was a fantastic red moon coming up over fields getting misty. Very cold and I got cold hands, but the joy of biking is worth it. It is not uncommon to have an owl fly alongside. I love eating good food, and biking allows me to eat and stay healthy. Most car drivers are considerate and patient. In a way they have to be as the lane is quite windy and cars often come off where there is a 90 degree bend. What does amaze me is the risks drivers take when overtaking. Cars with children in the back and this evening an ambulance squeezed past on a blind bend and only avoided an accident because the oncoming car did an emergency stop. I do not understand why the drivers take such risks in order to save a few seconds. Perhaps they are in a hurry to reach God, I can not work it out.
Nick Holmes
I do both a lot of driving and a lot of cycling. As a rsult of my cycling, I'm now much more aware of other cyclists when I'm driving. However, a real bugbear in either mode is the so-called "cycle lane" which is rarely more than space stolen from the motorist and full of the sort of debris that wrecks your bike. It's time councils actually widened the roads on these cycle routes so that users of both forms of transport have adequate space on the road.
Nick Holmes
I cycle and have done for years. I have twice been hit by cars at over 30mph who didnt even bother looking for cyclists, both times lucky to not break any bones. I hear so many quotes from people who drive saying how annoying cyclists are, surely this needs some education - London's roads suffer too many car journeys already and as our city continues to expand cycling plays an increasingly important part in having a liveable, commutable city.
Nick hopgood
Make roads safer we should not have to ride in the gutter.
Nick Hulme
As a motorcyclist I could not expect to survive if I disregarded red lights and other traffic signs as I often see cyclists do! Some cyclists contravene regulations regularly and put others at risk and should be prosecuted & banned from using bicycles!
Nick Humphries
The attitude of the average UK car driver towards cyclists needs to change. I spent 10 consecutive days on the road as a cyclist last summer. Three in the UK followed by seven in France. The contrast in attitudes could not have been more stark. In the UK I was frequently aghast (and frightened) at some of the dangerous driving close to, and around, me. In France I was treated with respect. If a motorist could not pass me safely he/she would follow at a safe distance until they could - sometimes for long periods of time. I felt I wanted to thank every one of them personally. In he UK it was as if every vehicle was on a time critical mission that had to continue regardless of any danger that might pose.
Nick Hutchings
Keep motorcyclists out of bus lanes. The recent change was confined to red routes, but many motorcyclists are now using *ALL* bus lanes, regardless of whether they are part of a red route.
Nigel Hayes
I use my bike every morning for a paper round. Most of the time there's no problem but in the winter months when it's still dark in the morning I'm often not seen. I have both front and rear lights and a high-visibility jacket but drivers just don't look. If I'm coming up to a junction at the same time as a car from a different direction, I'm in their blind spot where the car door frame is. A lot of drivers don't check and assume the roads will be clear at that time. I've had many drivers come close to hitting me, braking hard when they see me out their windscreen, honking their horn like I'm in the wrong. I'm behind this scheme all the way, safety is the main reason I don't cycle into college any more. It's something I'd love to start doing again.
Nigel Hunter
After the snow had melted a little on my commuting route to work, I decided to give it a go on Monday 6th. On part of the route there is a cycle lane but is not visible due to snow being there so I cycled in the road. 8 cars passed me WAY too close going no slower than normal and acting as though they'd done nothing wrong. Not even an acknowledgement of my being there. MOST drivers, not all need re-educating on proper road use giving plenty of room when passing and waiting till there is enough space for them to pass giving at least 5 feet space to the side and driving slower
Noel Hart
I spend time in Germany and there are dedicated cycling paths separated from the roadway. It is very safe to cycle. Motorists are also aware that they must yield to pedestrians and cyclists if turning into a side road, and will be held responsible if they do not. I would say that most motorists also use their cycles for different types of journey and are therefore aware of cyclists safety. A separate network of cycle paths is the best solution and these should not be at road level but raised at pavement level to prevent cars crossing over. The law should give cyclists priority over cars and there should be heavy penalties if not adhered to.
Oliver Hill
I love the city of London where I have grown up and learned to love cycling. I ride to work every day and want my children to grow up with an equal passion for cycling, but with a city that is more in harmony with all road users. Cyclists shouldn't need to become defensive litigious and on the look out for their lives. They should be respected by drivers of all kinds - afterall most cyclists are drivers too.
Oliver Hilton
I've been involved in one incident in the years I've been cycling in and around central London, and that involved a pedestrian stepping out into the road without looking. Perhaps you can't legislate for that! My major issue is the lack of cycling lanes on particularly busy roads and junctions, meaning that when a jam occurs chaos ensues, with many cyclists taking some spectacular risks when weaving between the traffic, battling as they do with motorbikes doing the same thing. One particular example is Trafalgar Square in the rush hour. The alternative, sitting behind and between lorries and buses, feels yet more dangerous, and seems to negate one of the reasons why people choose to cycle in the first place. While I agree that cycling safety should become a part of the driving test, it should play a major role in heavy goods vehicle training also. Further, more needs to be done to train cyclists, building upon what I understand to be some excellent cycling proficiency classes at primary school level. Perhaps cycling shop chains could be persuaded to run programmes offered to all of those who purchase a bike.
Oliver Huggins
I was knocked of my bike at Oval by a driver who I am pretty sure was drunk (it turned out he had just come from a tea party with the Queen). He turned left through me as I was travelling straight on southbound on CS7 in the rush hour. I told the police but they did nothing even thought the other side's insurance paid out quite a lot of money to me without argument. It's very clear that the police don't care about cyclists (unless they are earning £30 by nicking cyclists who jump red lights to avoid lorries). I also find that motorbikes and cars now habitually crowd the blue cycle boxes at lights: I asked the police why they don't penalise such motor drivers, and was told that it wasn't their responsibility (according to them it's supposed to be the local council who somehow enforce the blue box rules).
Olivia Hoare
I'm a not specially fit woman, who cycled to work in London for 20 years, well into my 60s, doing an hour each way every day. It was great! Travelling by quiet back routes slowed me down, but meant I enjoyed my commute instead of finding it a penance. It's easy, and fun, on the whole, but I can see how people are put off by our bike-unfriendly roads, and know that many more would cycle if only our road planners would go to Amsterdam, and find out how to do things the Dutch way.
Paul Handy
I live in Cambridge and commute to London with my Brompton bicycle. There is a marked difference between the provisions and attitude towards cyclists in London when compared to Cambridge. Something has to be done make cycling safer in our capital.
Paul Hardy
As both a cyclist and a motorist I think it is essential that there are rules to improve and standardise visibility of cyclists. High sided vehicles must have blind spots covered by cameras. AND cyclists must use more powerful lights. A cyclist at twilight using a single-AA battery headlight is INVISIBLE to motorists with the bright lights of a bus in their eyes.
paul hart
Every day I commute by bike 10 miles each way. Every day I see at least one car jump a red light. Every day I see a driver using a mobile phone. Every day I have to use a stregtch of appallingly designed cycle path that both slows me and puts me in more danger than if I was on the road. Every day at least one vehicle will pass me too close. Things need to change.
Paul Haslam
My 11 mile cycle to work is mainly country lanes. Only extreme weather will deter me. Pot holes, mud and other obstacles mean you can't always stick to the side of the road. Most drivers are fair, a few just don't seem to know how to overtake, occasionally they are aggressive. I make sure I'm visible, two rear lights, a mega powerful front light (only £35 from eBay). Cars now dip their headlights 200m before they reach me, some stop, I think they think I'm a tractor! Good lights are the most important factor for cycling on country lanes, you can see me from the moon!
Paul Hastings
I cycle in Leamington Spa Warwickshire the roads are in a terrible condition.
Paul Hayes
The vast majority of other road users treat me with courtesy and respect, but not a day goes by without me feeling threatened by inconsiderate, lazy or downright malicious drivers. 1. Speed. We need lower speed limits, especially on urban roads. I'm no fan of speed bumps but on a flat road with traffic calming I keep up with the traffic and so am much safer. 2. Enforcement of existing laws by traffic officers. Those who routinely break traffic laws and endanger the lives of others need to be taken off the roads. Light commercials ('white vans'), taxi drivers at night and drivers under the age of 25 need particular attention. 3. Educate drivers about cyclists, e.g. if I'm in the middle of the carriageway I'm there for a reason (controlling the place where I'll be overtaken), not to annoy other road users. 4. Separate cyclists, other road users and pedestrians were possible
Paul Haysom
I was on my way back from a training ride around Richmond Park, a motorist turning across the road completely oblivious to me coming and swiftly turned in to me. Bike is wrecked, however they admitted responsibility - I'm lucky to still be walking!
Paul Heggie
Incorporate a week's cycling on the road as part of the driving test. We need to make car drivers more aware of cyclists and this would help to do that.
Paul Helyer
I cycle at least 500 miles per month and have had experiences ranging from cars that don't see me, through cars that do see me but think they need to be in front of me and in one instance where a car chased me for at least 4 minutes mounting the pavement several times trying to physically hit me with his car. Motorists need to be aware that it should not be a case of whether they can squeeze past to overtake without hitting the oncoming car, but whether they can pass giving cyclists enough space to be safe before even considering whether they will impact an oncoming car. If I were not so massively addicted to cycling I honestly believe that I would stop because at times the roads feel so unsafe I worry for my safety.
Paul Hickman
Whilst cycling through the Highstreet of my hometown of Cinderford in the forest of dean I was knocked off my bike by a car whose driver had to make the decision of desaddling me or hitting a lorry in thee narrow street. Fortunately I was uninsured in the incident
Paul Hill
I am a regular cyclist and my experiences of British Streets, specially Nottingham have been pretty horrendous at times when I go about my business. Despite wearing all the correct gear and lighting and mirrors I have encountered motorists who have no respect for cyclists, like myself. I have nearly been killed from speeding motorists coming from my left when I have been negotiating a traffic island, drivers overtaking me at the same time as I am indicating to turn right at a junction (one one occasion when it was almost dark and I had my lights on and wearing reflective gear - orange top and yellow night vision gloves), drivers turning right at junctions as I am almost close. Drivers overtaking me then suddenly turning left into side roads without using indicators. Even when crossing over from the the ring road cycle path into the wide gap between the central reservation to enter the Whitemoor estate opposite to get to my home, I often experience drivers coming from that estate opposite to turn right but position themselves too far to their right as they head south, giving me little chance of crossing the ring road safely when I am going north. I also have drivers overtaking me on bridges with blind bends, I get regularly overtaken near central refuges when I am very close to them. So, yes, better and tougher training for drivers with compulsory cycle rides in traffic would give them a better awareness of just how vulnerable cyclists are in today's traffic. Then they may become better drivers and as a result show more respect towards cyclists.
Paul Horsfall
Agree that cycling in the UK is too dangerous. Having riden both competively and on training camps elsewhere in Europe there is a much higher level of respect for cyclists in other countries. I regularly get beeped or shouted at for riding two abreast on open country roads during training rides. Drivers do not realise that they are in operation of a lethal weapon and are far too willing to risk the lives of cyclists to make a point or out of naivety.
Paul Howell
I Cycle to work every day and the thing that annoys me is cars turn left without looking as I'm alongside them forcing me to take the left turn with them. This also happens on roundabouts. i wear reflective s and have very bright lights on during the day and i am still invisible. it probably doesn't help that there are a vast number of cars that pass me stinking of cannabis first thing in the morning, what is wrong with these people.
Paula Hollings
I cycle pretty much every day and, like most London cyclists, have had a number of hairy moments. The classic car door opening and tumbling me off; cars turning left zooming right across my bow; a pedestrian knocking me flying as they ran for the bus (leaving me sprawled in the road); forced against the railings by a passing lorry swinging left around a bend (that was the scariest, with nowhere to fall out of its path). It's a tough world out there for cyclists! I heartily support your campaign.
Peggy Howson
I have recently learn to ride a bike (at age 57!) and received fantastic training through Westminster City Council. I am having further private lessons to help me ride on the busy London roads. Even though I am new to cycling and still a novice, I see some dreadful cyclists on the roads. I am surprised that I did not have to pass any proficiency test before I could ride on potentially dangerous roads. I feel strongly that there should be a cycling test as with a car drivers test and that cyclists could be stopped and penalised if they are not sticking to the rules of the road.
Penny Harris
Please don't forget those of us that cycle outside cities. I cycle on country roads and A roads and I always wonder whether I will finish each ride in one piece or not. Friends have lost their lives on totally straight rural roads. As a nation we need to revisit patience and tolerance!!!
Peter Brian Hodgson
I live on a large estate, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton on Tees and the cycle path network is exceptional in my area and in adjacent towns of Middlesbrough, Darlington. My only serious accident was on a cycle path 50yrds from my home, head on with another cyclist ! - both hospitalised, rather funny in retrospect !
Peter Hall
For 11 years, I have commuted 30 miles a day into Birmingham which is a most bike unfriendly place (I can count commuters on bikes on one hand). Thankfully, I have never had a serious accident but that is due to luck, lots of lights and hi-vis clothes and not due to any investment in making cycling safe. The car rules in the UK - I am afraid we are a nation of selfish, lazy, gas guzzlers.
Peter Hall
I cycle regullarly in London although I live in Cheshire. The most depressing thing I see is the thoughtless (they do not think) behaviour of a lot of cyclists. Cycling up the inside of lorries or buses when they are about to set off from lights is .... well dumb. If I am going to ride up the inside of any stationery vehicle then I will try and judge the sequence of the lights. If the lights are already red when I arrive then the assumption must be that they are going to change DO NOT RIDE UP THE INSIDE AS THE TRAFFIC IS ABOUT TO MOVE! I could go on and on and on....
Peter Hallam
I cycle to work every day and staying safe is a challenge. Rather than being confrontational with motorists, govt depts etc, I would prefer to work together for long term transport solutions. Surely the car clogged streets can't go on and we must find better ways to travel anyway. I would like to see a national debate on how would we like to see our streets in 5/10/20 years time and a coherent strategy that maps that out. Most transport schemes (local and national) are rather 'sticking plaster' affairs, which lack long term vision. We often overestimate what we can achieve in 1 year, but underestimate what we can achieve in 5. So for example, if we set a target of 25% of all travel to be completed by non fossil fuelled transport by 2017, then the discussion becomes a national one of 'how could we achieve this?' My personal idea for cyclists, is I would like to see one of the two pavements which border virtually every road turned into a cycle path. Colour coding the pavement would be a simple and cheap way of achieving relatively safe cycle paths. I really want to cycle with my daughter to school, but it's just not safe for her. Providing an 'off road' cycle path for her to use would be great. This is just one idea, but there must be tons of others if nationally we put our thinking caps on and start thinking outside the box the car has trapped us into. Don't get me wrong I enjoy using my car, but we must move on now,
Peter Harding
I cycle to work every day I work and cycle a lot for leisure. I will never cycle with headphones and always wear light bright tops. In winter I use helmet lights as well. I am 62 and have lasted so far without serious injury. Lets stop those red light jumpers, they give the rest of us a bad anme.
Peter Harris
It is not just cities - but small towns too. Southwell, Notts, a small cathedral town, has narrow streets and HGVs that do not mix. We are campaigning for the A612 to be downgraded, so that sat navs do not use our town as a direct route. We are encouraging cycling, but the dangers are off putting. As Leader of our Town Council, and cyclist, I support the campaign.
Peter Harris
Its not just lorries in cities that are the problem. Cars & vans passing too close and too fast in country areas are also a major problem. Why can't we cyclists have the same respect as horse riders have managed to achieve?
Peter Harrison
make it mandatory for all learner ar drivers to ride a bike under simulated conditions to experience the dangers cyclists are subjected to on the open road
Peter Hawkins
I've been cycling the roads of Britain for 65 years. I've had a couple of crashes with cars. I practice the equivalent of defensive driving - defensive cycling. This has 3 basic principles, 1) assume everyone else on the road is a complete idiot; 2) ride at a steady speed,always slower than you could ride; 3) try to anticipate what other road users will do before they do it. In my experience one of the worst problems is poor road maintenance. The potholes always lie just where cyclists ride. This means you ride further out than is comfortable, and frequently swerve to avoid the worst holes - which puts you in danger. I'd like to see this in the manifesto,or include it in item 4.
Peter Hayes
I used to be a regular home-to-work cyclist, taking the opportunity to make the most of my commuting time by turning it into my fitness time as I had struggled to make it t the gym with a young family and all the rewarding yet time-consuming commitments that brings. I had had a few incidents where cars even buses had deliberately cut me up...soon learning that late signalling often meant a safer journey. I am a car driver so am well aware of the need for road correct positioning etc... so also had a good awareness of drivers choosing to be dangerous. However, nothing could prepare me for what happened on 19 Dec 2008. It was wet and dark and the traffic in Manchester was heavy so I decided to take a cut through a back street. Turning right on to a cobbled street there was a stream of cars coming the other way also seeking to avoid the traffic. I was on the left side of the road, lit up like a christmas tree and sporting a hi-vis yellow cycling jacket. The next thing I remember is a car turning the corner up ahead but instead of keeping left they kept encroaching on to the right had side of the road....surely they must see me I thought as their headlight blinded me....I pulled right over to the gutter and the next thing I remember is rising into the air thinking "I'll never get home to Mum's in Coventry for my birthday tomorrow!". Next thing I hit the ground with a thud, fortunately landing flat on my chest and only splitting my chin open. Concussed I lay there, grateful for the concern and help of passing pedestrians....driverdid stop and came over to tell me he didn't see me as he shook my hand...I wasn't in a state to take anything in. The pedestrians was so concerned with me no-one noticed the driver slip away and drive off without giving his details. Didn't make it to Coventry, took a while for the shock and bruises to wear off and never have ridden in commuter traffic since. I have a young family and a beautiful wife and I want to enjoy them and they me...it wouldn't be fair to do anything else than get the bus now. If the streets can be made safer and drivers encourage dto remember that cyclists are not targets but real people with familes then that would be a good thing indeed.
Peter Hayhurst
Congleton is ideal centre for leisure cycling but the by-pass and the one-way system through town and bad condition of the road surfaces in and around town are definitely cycling-unfriendly! Our Campaign group is active but the Council and Cheshire East have not made any improvements - due to lack of money (?) and difficulties in changing the old road network.
Peter Hayman
As an experienced cyclist I believe that cycling is intrinsically safe. This means that being crashed into from behind on my way from Glasgow to Kilmarnock to watch Killie play, I was a bit embarrassed as well as annoyed at missing the game. There was some snow on the road but I was cycling in a cycle lane, up hill into a low sun. The crash was a classic case of SMIDSY as the driver admitted full responsibility, saying he didn't see me because of the sun. Very luckily my injuries, treated in hospital, were not life threatening and my heavy clothing helped cushion my landing. The Police at the scene called it Just an accident. Other than money for broken bits of bike, I didn't pursue my personal injury claim, beyond a token payment, because I declined on principle to had over all my medical records to the driver's insurers. It was accepted that I was in no way at fault so I couldn't see how my 69 years of medical history had any bearing on anything. Strict Liability, as enacted in most civilised European countries, would have made this victim blame approach irrelevant. A battle still to be won in the car-centric UK. Adopting this principle along with an acceptance of much reduced motor vehicle speeds are likely to be the best ways to promote and protect the cycling environment. Peter Hayman
Peter Heath
As a 65 yrs old experienced cyclist who rides 7K miles annually I took note of cyclists in London this week, whilst making a bus journey from Trafalgar Square to Muswell Hill around 6pm. Too many cyclist had inadequate lights, or missing front or rear lights. We need to make ourselves clearly seen so get those lights on guys and gals.And wear Hi Viz clothing. I do my cycling in Suffolk but could immediately see the risks that city cyclists take when trying to pursue their healthy activity amongst HGVs, buses and cars. Solving the problems will not be simple but I applaud the campaign to make our streets safer for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
Peter Hellery
The biggest issue is one of respect for cyclists. Everyday you can see cyclists not stopping at red lights, riding on pavements, cycling the wrong way down one way streets. Cyclists must respect the rules of the road then vehicle drivers will accept them on the roads and learn to co-exist with them. It would be interesting to find out how many pedestrians have been injured by rogue cyclists riding on pavements. I fully support safety for cyclists but they must get a grip of the many rogue cyclists that exist.
Peter Henshaw
The Times/citiesfitforcycling is a great campaign for the safety of urban cyclists. But don't forget things aren't much better out in the country. We're faced with higher traffic speeds, unlit roads and narrow country lanes with blind corners. A default 20mph limit on anything single track road less than a B-class (ie typical country lane) would be a good start.
Peter Hicks
Cycling to the school I work at was a painful experience this morning. 2 scarves wrapped around my face limited the damage, but I still ended up with an insight into how Scott must have felt when he was on his way to the South Pole. Fortunately for me though, -8 celcius temperatures were all I had to contend with. I did most of my journey on a disused railway line that loops around the bottom of Manchester, bringing me out at a cycle path that brings me to the school gates. We need more facilities like this in our cities, soaring over (or under) main roads, speeding cyclists on their way.
Peter Hoggins
I do most of my cycling on long distance paths or very quiet roads. However occasionally I do have to use busy roads (A22/A264 West Sussex) and they are a nightmare. I support The Times campaign whole-heartedly and any safety improvements this might bring would be fantastic!
Peter Holland
Cycling in London is actually the best way of getting to know the city and great for keeping fit and seeing the sights. Its also quicker and cheaper than London travel and really sets you up for a day at work. Awareness of road users has definately improved in the two and half years of cycling in London, and thats partially due to the rising numbers of people turning to the bike. There is still room for improvement though and more should be done to get more people into helmets and out on the road. The super highways were a great attempt at raising this profile, but they seem to have been plagued by negative press and now forgotten, despite it acting as a visual aid to motorists that cyclists do exist and share the road. Cyclists can be just as guilty for not obeying the law of the road, skipping lights, weaving across everywhere and not wearing helmets. Roads will become much more safer if everyone sticks to the rules of the road and acts safely thus improving conditions out there. But I for one am always up for more space, lanes, roads for cycle users and then maybe more people will ditch the cars in this crowded city.
Peter Holmes
A regular cyclist commuting fourteen miles each way across south London, I escaped any injury or accident during nearly tewnty years. However, one Friday evening, withnthe sun still shining and excellent
Peter Hopkins
"In Copenhagen, even the Queen cycles" says Rhoda Buchanan. It is perhaps not generally known that the patron of the UK's CTC (Cyclists' Touring Club)is Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, no less. I believe the AA has to put up with a mere Duke. This honour stems originally from the late 19th Century, when only the wealthy could afford bikes. Steadily, through the 20th Century, cycling moved downmarket and developed its "cloth cap image" as the transport of the working class. That is why the Turkish visitors described by Rhoda reacted as they did to the many cyclists in Copenhagen - and even in Britain there is still something of this attitude today. For generations, magistrates, lawyers and other influential professionals were car-owners with little sympathy for the humble bike. Middle class people who cycled (like Ernest Marples) were viewed as eccentrics. Luckily, the middle classes rediscovered cycling during the 1970s (the result of a mixture of growing health and save-the-planet consciousness), a trend which has luckily given it far more articulate and influential supporters. I see The Times' campaign as a welcome continuation of this. Peter Hopkins (Club cyclist since 1950; co-founder of present Oxford University CC in 1957; 1st General Secretary, English Schools Cycling Association in 1967; life member of CTC)
peter hughes
My latest flirtation with death was turning left at a very narrow 90 degree bend. Just before the turn I heard the car behind getting closer...and closer. It overtook on the bend and swung wide at the apex as another car came round travelling in the opposite direction. I took to the verge and came off. No one stopped. Oblivious to my situation.. Just another impatient ignorant driver and there are just too many such on the road.
Peter Hume
It is unrealistic to expect UK towns and Cities to build cycle infastructure like you see in Copenhagen and other cities so we need to educate vehicle drivers and cyclists to be aware of the potential dangers and mutually respect each other as legitimate road users
Peter J Hammond
While I strongly support the campaign it must be noted that we cyclists should at all times adhere to the highway code , the horrible deaths in collisions especially with HGV s could in some cases be avoided by the cyclist staying behind the HGV so that the driver can see you . I personally ride about 5,000 miles a year and am constantly aware and wear high visibility clothing .
Phil Hatley
1 Enforce existing traffic laws rigorously. 2 Introduce presumed liability. 3 Increase penalties for motoring offences, particularly driving without insurance, driving whilst disqualified, leaving the scene of an accident. Increase ability for authorities to confiscate and destroy vehicles of offenders. 4 Education campaigns for cyclists and motorists. 5 Make cyclist awareness/safety an integral part of the driving test. 6 Where cycling infrastructure is built, mandate that it conforms to national standards. 7 Cycle training to be made available to all schoolchildren. 8 Dispense with Vehicle Excise Duty and instead recover the same tax income through higher duties on fuel. This will encourage people to buy smaller vehicles and use them less (as opposed to now where once you have bought and taxed a vehicle you may as well use it as the per mile cost is so low). 9 Introduce a requirement to display a certificate of insurance on the windscreen, much like the existing VED disc. Any car not displaying this disc is not insured and can therefore be legitimately towed away.
Phil Hurst
I gave up racing motorcycles around the track to take up road cycling. I'm amazed by the amount of idiots and in my experience motorists who are simply intent on causing danger to cyclists. As a police officer I've even had someone working for the police deliberately try to endanger me and block my path. His excuse, use the cycle path. Unbelievable.
Phil Huxley
Too much coverage about London problems - no doubt they are real. Come to Nottingham to see cycle routes that run out when you need them; unswept routes; appalling lack of maintenance of routes; cosmetic approach by City & County councils. Parking in cycling routes etc. Why no yellow hatching in cycle boxes? Penalty points for drivers who encroach? Green cycle traffic signals to allow cucles to get away ahead of other traffic? So much that is so easy to do. No political will in Nottingham. Too busy spending money on a tram system based on 19th Century technology - another vanity project. Phil Huxley.
Philip Howard
The cycles lanes that go up through north Leeds are a disgrace. They have lots of holes and lumpy lines markings. Leeds doesn't really encourage cycling by quality investment. It pays lip service only.
Philip Hurrell
I cycle to work most days and find motorists generally pretty accomodating on my 10mile route to work. I think cyclists and drivers both need to be more aware of each other. Trucks and Buses are dangerous for cyclists, so cyclists should not take chances trying to overtake unless it is quite obviously safe.
Philippa Harrington-Smith
I am an avid cyclist and although things have definitely improved in London there is still a long way to go before our roads are safe. The cycle routes are great but motorists generally have no regard for cyclists or the fact there are bike lanes! I have had two accidents (luckily minor) over the last 6 months - the first being due to a cyclist swerving across the bike lane and knocking me off with his wing mirrow (and he didnt even get out to check i was ok!!) and the second being an oil spil that Wandsworth council had not bothered to clear up! I've lived in both Copenhagen and Amsterdam, where motorists have been educated to constantly look out for cyclists - we really need to develop this mentality if we want to promote safe cycling in the UK. As a child I also did my cycling proficiency badge which certainly helped teach me how to cycle safely - this should be mandatory for all school children! Good luck with the campaign and fingers crossed for a speedy recovery for Mary. Philippa
rachel hanks
I am a cyclist and car driver - i think one of the biggest problems for cyclists (apart from dangerous lorries and traffic) is the general attitude towards cyclists in general. Its them against us (drivers v cyclists). The number of times I have listened to people rant on about cyclists not being taxed, being dangerous, jumping red lights etc, or the amount of aggression on the streets - it makes me want to scream! there is a real resentment against cyclists in this country - based on what I don't quite know. I totally support the times in this campaign but sadly until a journalist from a paper like 'the sun' gets killed or injured, I fear the message may still not reach enough people. Until the 'common man' - the sun reader, the white van man, etc changes their attitude, I don't really see things getting better -In short people hate cyclists!
Rachel Hemingway
Cycled in London for years - now living in Glasgow and cycle 25km daily to and from work. The cycle is horrendous due to complete absence of cycle lanes along entire route, ignorance and inexperience of drivers, potholes along the route. Have come close to being hit twice - once by a car and once by a truck. I welcome the campaign and really hope it makes a difference. The reason I'm given continuously for others not cycling is fear of drivers.
Ray Herbert
As both a cyclist and car briver I see both sides of the arguement . Alot of the problem seems to be a lack of proper training not just for car and lorry drivers,which have a difficult enough job driven on the congested roads , but for for cyclists as well ,perhaps large bike retailers could offer details of any training when selling bikes as I don't think if any are available ,especially for adult cyclist perhaps returning to bikes ,then they are easy to find . While it would be be goood for local councils to make funds available in the current cash strapped enviroment this is not always possible ,central goverment should be making money available earmarked to cycling projects.
rebecca heard
Last year i was buying a bicycle on Holloway Road, at the same time a young cyclist was killed outside of the cycle shop. The motorist opened his car door, yes he should have checked before opening his door but as a major route for cyclists shouldn't this road have had a designated cycle lane, and also why let cars park on one of Islington's most used roads? This was a waste of life, it was a stupid mistake by a driver who didn't have cyclists' in mind and it was also the fault of the council for not making the area safe for cyclists. I bought my bike, and i cycle everyday with the thought of that accident.
Revd Gill Hulme
Too many cycle lanes run out at dangerous points, or pinch points. Cycle lanes should be 'joined up' to create safe routes. When I was living in Cambridgeshire there was an excellent rural route, which was lit especially for cyclists
Richard Haigh
Great campaign and as a regular cycle commuter I would love to see all the 8 points in the manfesto in action. Certainly caused a lot of positive response in our cycling club - Kingston Wheelers.
Richard Haines
We need more cycling lanes on the main A roads, cars drive far too close to cyclists. There needs to be more Government sponsored awareness about the importance of considering cyclists on the road.
Richard Harman
I am a cyclist, a motorist and a pedestrian. But I'm also a practicing traffic engineer working for a local authority which includes one of the previous cycling towns. I look after cycle infrastructure projects and the single most challenge we face is the lack of political support available from local councillors and MP's. More increasing the hard work us officers do to improve the network for people who cycle is seen as a 'nice to have' in the current financial climate. Clearly this is counter-productive when we're trying to offer people a cheap/free transport alternative, whilst also offering benefits to health. It would seem to me that us cyclists are still viewed as a 'rogue faction' of society who don't don't generally vote for the main political parties. This is obviously untrue and people who chose to jump on a bike for transport/ health/enjoyment come from all backgrounds. Braking down this stigmata in society has much wider benefits than just dropping the 'excentric' tag and is the first and greatest challenge faced in cycling becoming widely accepted as 'normal' by society.
Richard Hext
Be more active in opening up legacy transport infrastructure for cycle routes: canals, old railway lines, rivers all formed the original transport infrastructure on which the cities were built in the first place and a lot of them still exist albeit covered over, turned into footpaths, or even just sealed off. The whole country is criss-crossed with footpaths which hardly anybody uses any more....
Richard Higgins
I commute daily in Manchester where the traffic may be less heavy but the provision for cyclists is even worse than in London. Cycling is simply not considered when planning the roads of Manchester. I'd love to see that change.
Richard Hill
The UK has to bite the bullet and invest in cycling infrastructure that works. There also needs to be an adjustment to the laws surrounding cyclists on the roads such that it encourages other road users to give them the space they require. I also support cyclist in general being required to adhere more strictly to the laws applied to them. If this is hard to do then a registration scheme would help.
Richard Hull
The UK is just so far behind countries like Denmark and Germany in improving conditions for cyclists.
Richard Hyde
Please don't forget rural areas in the campaign. Safe cycle routes to schools is sometimes difficult to achieve given current planning rules and priorities. For example, a presumption in favour of change of use of a footpath to shared footpath/cycleway would make a big difference.
Rizal Hafiz
As a cyclist myself, I truly support this. The government must see this as an important issue because if cycling on the road is too dangerous, people will stop doing it and will put an extra burden on the traffic in cities.
Rob howard
We must all work together to stop the normalisation and acceptability of the hatred of cyclists.
Rob Howes
In April 2008 I started cycle commuting back and forth to work. I was 56, fat, very unfit, had high blood pressure and high cholesterol. A perfect example of modern middle aged man. Now the tricky bit is that I live in the highest village in Wiltshire but worked in Swindon which some would say is Wiltshire's lowest point. So for the first week it was really slow and hard going. Luckily I had a plan which involved stopping and gazing at the view when I'd run out of puff. This showed me two things, firstly there is some amazing countryside on my way home that I really hadn't seen as I blasted by in the car and secondly it actually was possible to cycle gently. By week three I was getting speedy, after eight weeks I looked at before and after photos and I have to say I was shocked. I'd lost about a stone and a half but had really toned up. I looked, well I don't know how much younger! (I'll forward the photos if you want to see them). By now I was hooked and any excuse saw me out on the bike. Four years later I'm still doing it. My blood pressure is 120/80, my resting heart rate is around 50 and I don't need any cholesterol medication. I'm still carrying about a stone too much but that's because I now cycle with 20 or 30 guys of my age called the Wanborough vets and on Tuesday night we do a pub crawl thinly disguised as a club evening ride. This year I'll do a couple of overnight century rides such as the Exmouth Exodus. It's huge buzz cycling down Cheddar gorge in the dark with the bats for company! So my advice is, it doesn't matter where you are now, you can quickly be fitter and enjoying life a lot more by getting on your bike. You are twenty times more likely to die from inactivity than cycling! The cost to the NHS of unhealthy, inactive, obese people is simply unaffordable. Travel costs are increasing exponentially. Fuel and travel isn't going to get any cheaper so we have to make our streets and roads safer for cycling. We simply can't afford to do anything else
Rob Hunt
I cycle in London on a daily basis and have seen death and injury first hand. Something needs to be done as both vehicle drivers and cyclist make cycling pretty hellish. People slow down and give people on Horses respect the same should be given to cyclists...!!
Robert Hale
CPC's have recently become compulsory for "professionalism" lorry drivers. The curriculum for the five days training is very ill defined. Part of the course should be a mandatory requirement to pass Bikeabilty Level 3. If a driver cannot pass it he should not be driving. She/he is either not fit enough to drive, or has such bad road sense.
Robert Harrtel
I cycle mainly on quiet roads in North London. I'm a proficient rider with 12 years of London commuting under my belt. But whenever I ventured into places with more traffic and HGVs I've had hairy encounters. Once I nearly got run over by a lorry as I was going straight on a blue cycle highway and the traffic was sent directly into my path. The balance needs to shift from motorised traffic to bikes - it's a no brainer. London simply does not have enough space for all the cars and the pollution they create.
Robert Hickling
I cycle regularly around the capital and find it the best way to get around. Most of the time it's perfectly safe and different road users are considerate. But there was one occasion I would have ended up under a London tour bus if I hadn't taken evasive action to get out of its way when he pulled in front of me and immediately turned sharp left. I complained to the company who refused to apologise as 'it might be take as an admission of having done something wrong'. Anything that makes cycling safer and gets more people out on their bikes gets my support.
Robert Holmes
Two suggestions to support The Times eminently practicable manifesto: first, I see too many non-helmeted cyclists so suggest a programme to raise awareness amongst cyclists of the benefits of wearing a helmet and replacing this every 5 years (or so, and this avoids the need to regulate on this matter); and second, I see far too many cyclists at night-time riding with no cycle lights of any description - is this crazy or what, its not as if they need to be expensive?
Robert Horne
As a cyclist, motorcyclist and car driver commuting in Birmingham, my plea to both car drivers and cyclists is to use your lights. Car drivers: Please allow more room for bikes, just use your steering wheel... Cyclists: You have as much right to be on the road, enjoy the freedom but make sure you are seen.
Robert Houghton
There are a lot of cycle paths round here in south Gloucestershire and I can even cycle to work without having to ride on the road except when crossing at a few signal controlled junctions. The problem it that the surface quality of the paths is so poor in places it can force you onto the road. Councils need to understand that most bikes don't benefit from suspension and they should try to maintain the surface of cycle paths to cyclists can travel in a reasonable degree of comfort.
Robert Huggins-Manners
I travel to work 5-6 days a week on my bike, it's roughly a 5-mile route. It consists of a 2-mile stretch of single carriage way and then 3-miles of busy main roads. The roads do have a cycle path, but they are part of the normal road surface and due to the lack of upkeep of the sides of the roads where the cycle path is part of, it is very, very rough, and has a lot of cracks, small potholes and other small dangerous (to a cyclist) things swept aside by the other traffic using the road. I have contacted my local council about possibly smoothing the cycle path out, making it easier and nicer for cyclists to use (hopefully getting more cyclists using them!) as well as being a lot safer, as I have often had to quickly change my direction due to a pot hole in the lane. I have had no response from them, and because the roads are in the same condition as they were 6months ago, I believe they wont be doing anything anytime soon. Very, very disappointing.
Robert Hutson
Being a cyclist in London is a moral and philosophical dilemma - the current system, due to unenforced laws and lack of provision for cyclists, means in effect that cyclists have little in the way of effective rights and responsibilities. I try to follow the laws of the road wherever practically possible - but when I show this responsibility I know I will not be receiving any rights at the same time, and it is not hard to see why other cyclists choose to fly past me after I have stopped at a red light. These cyclists often need to show more responsibility - but until they in return receive more rights as a new 'contract' with wider society - cyclists respecting the laws of the road in return for improved infrastructure that has clearly taken the needs of cyclists into account, I fear that London's 'laissez-faire' approach to cycling will continue - with a lack of provision for sensible, law-abiding cyclists and every incentive for cyclists who do not currently follow the laws of the road to continue doing so.
Robin Harwood
Completely support creating a safer enviroment for cyclists and there is also a balance of emphasis required. There are a number of equally irresponsible cy lists who are aggressively causing accidents. Riding at 20 miles per hour means that they appear out no where! If you want to see furher examples of lunatics on wheels walk through Richmond Park on a sunday morning and the speed mountain bikers attack sorry approach families walking along the paths. Cyclists are often to blame for there own
Robin Hawkins
Car drivers are far too happy to cut you up. I have been overtaken countless times, 20 yards from the junction, but thecar driver wants to be in front of me at the junction. So many car drivers pull out of junctions knowing you are there but still do because they know I will come off worse in an accident.
robin haynes
I have cycled around 3.000 miles every year commuting to and from work since 1987. There can be no doubt doing so is why i approach my fifth decade with blood pressure of 110/80, a resting pulse of 60 and the same bmi that i left school with. But every day, i am made to think about my own mortality and vulnerability to the unthinking, the misanthropic and the plain dumb, all of whom threaten my very existence. Urban cycling in the UK simply does not work unless you know the potholes, are hugely assertive and are prepared to risk your life as a matter of routine. And crucially, are lucky. There is no other word for it. No cycle lane can claim to fulfil its reason for being unless a parent would be happy for their 8 year old son or daughter to use it. Meanwhile, I invite any grown up transport minister to join me on my journey to and from work. Until that is a sensible proposition, urban cycling in Scotland and the rest of the UK will NEVER be anything other than a pursuit for the marginal, the eccentric and, well, the doomed.
Robin Helps
Even today our London planners are still designing major intersections such as The Angel and Upper Street Islington to cater for pedestrians and motor traffic with a complete neglect of cyclists. Why don't they integrate?
Robin Heydon
We need to go Dutch, or Danish, or Swedish...
Robin Howell
Message: We don't all live in cities, but our cycling needs are no different! Bodmin Cornwall
Rod Hebden
Roads in our cities are now designed around the car. Cyclists and pedestrians are at best resented and at worst pushed out altogether. Most cycle routes, meanwhile, seem to be designed to placate or to remove bikes from the road, which just erodes the rights of non-car-users further. It's built around the idea that the road belongs to the car and anyone else is impinging upon that. There doesn't seem to be much appreciation for the fact that cars are actually relative new-comers to our roads. Rather than starting form a concession-seeking basis, let's get to an place where all road users are equally valued - then maybe cars won't cut-up cyclists, and cyclists won't jump red-lights!
Rod Holt
I have been a cycling proficiency officer for 10 years and a cyclist a lot longer. I think we need to get to the root of the problem. I have always thought it would be good to have a cycling profiency test for teenagers which would be a prerequisite of the driving test.
Roger Hopkins
We are all just road users. We all have the same rights and priviledges as one another. It matters not how many wheels your vehicle has. Mutual respect seems to be missing. The "Us vs Them" mentality needs to be addressed.
Roger Humphry
Mostly I find drivers reasonably considerate. When I have been driving I have realised that large groups of weekend social cyclists are sometimes a bit inconsiderate by forming a long string which drivers are wise not to overtake. My MSP, John Swinney, gave sly warm words of support for the creation of a local footpath/cycle path and, according to campaigners,contrary to manifesto commitments, AT THE SAME TIME cut the proportion of the scottish transport budget for walking and cycling.
Roland Hancock
I cycle 20 miles every day through west london from Battersea to Osterley and back. I support your campaign wholeheartedly. If you want a radical proposal try this on for size. Make the whole of central London available only to pedestrians and cyclists. Stores needing to restock can do so between the hours of 2 and 4am. Buses are allowed in. Mayfair oligarchs who really feel they need to have access to their Landrovers can do so for an exorbitant fee. All former parking attendants should become free cycle rickshaw drivers for the elderly and infirm. Who ten years ago would have believed Oxford Street could be closed to all traffic but buses and taxis?
ron healey
Cycling City? York just spent £3.5m promoting cycling including some new sections of existing disjointed cycle network, using funds from Cycling England. Former Cycling England member Cllr. Dave Merrett has done a political about turn in September with his City Strategy hat on, by agreeing to remove a section of dedicated cycle lane on an orbital route that cost over £600k. The intention being to reinstate a two(narrow) lane approach to Water End junction, following pressure from locals about a rat run through their streets and added peak hour congestion. Despite York's much vaunted hierarchy that makes cycles and pedestrians top priority, this decision effectively re-allocates road space to single person car-commuters. Cycle groups have recently had their say about the alternatives and given them "thumbs down"
Rosa Hoekstra
Thank you Times for putting cycling safety at your front page today. I think this is an incredibly important campaign. London has the potential to become a much healthier, greener and less congested place if your 8-point manifesto is taken up. I have two suggestions for making cycling safer in the UK: 1) Start a media campaign informing drivers to stay out of the dedicated space reserved for cyclists at intersections (and enforce this rule through fines after the media campaign). At present about half the drivers seem to oversee these spaces, making them currently of little use. These spaces are life savers, as they make sure that cyclists are in front of all other traffic, so they won't be in a driver's blind spot at the intersection. Left-turning vehicles at intesections are a notorious cause for accidents involving cyclists. 2) Introduce traffic lights for cyclists that turn green a couple of seconds before the cars' traffic lights. This system is in place in my motherland (the Netherlands) and greatly helps in reducing cycling accidents at big intersections. best wishes, Rosa Hoekstra
Rosalind Hamill
I am an MoD civil servant, living and working in Germany. They had got it right. Cycle paths everywhere Cycle traffic lights, no kerbs, easy travelling even through the busiest city. Motorists MUST give way to cyclists at all times. Motorists respect cyclists - not see them as a nuisance.
Rosalind Hobson
I've been fortunate enough to cycle in many different countries and Britains roads are by far the most dangerous I've experienced. It comes down to mutual respect and understanding between driver and cyclist. The countries where more drivers are also cyclists have the safest roads. Luckily I've only experienced near misses, both when being overtaken by a Hgv on an A road, and being treated like a narrowing in the road rather than a road user moving at speed. Better driver training must be enforced.
Rosalind Holley
As a female cyclist I feel very vulnerable on the streets of London. When I talk about cycling with non-cyclists, I am usually greeted with a lot negative comments about cyclists - how they're a danger to pedestrians, how they break the road rules, and so on. In fact there's sometimes even an implication that cyclists 'bring it on themselves' by choosing to be on the roads. But the fact is, Britain's cities do not reward law abiding cyclists, indeed, it often feels much more dangerous to remain in the box at a junction with several lorries lined up behind you than it is to jump a red light. I really hope this campaign makes people think about demonising cyclists - when in the debate should be about how to improve city streets so they can safely follow the highway code.
Rosie Holdsworth
I'm a keen cyclist and am lucky enough to be employed as a 'bikeability' trainer. Road safety training for cyclists is simple, fun and effective and should be incorporated into the driving test. This would give drivers an appreciation of issues facing other road users and might encourage better manners and safer journeys all round. Luckily I can make all my journeys to work safely by bike avoiding all but minor roads. Safe off road routes such as the canal towpath I use encourage healthy commuting and are essential for enjoyable and safe journeys around town. I've never been knocked off my bike, and intend to keep it that way, which is why with city roads as congested and aggressive as they currently are, I would never dream of cycling in city streets. A real shame.
Rupert Havard
I was 15 in 1942 when I rode my first adult bicycle, and on the road. I rode a bike through London for the next 10 years, but it has to be remembered that the traffic flow then was nothing like it is today. Nonetheless, it was still a little scary in the thick of London traffic. Now, at 84, I walk! Good luck to all your efforts, especially the 20 mph limit in residential areas and near schools.
Russ Harvey
I welcome this campaign as I am sure many that cycle in London (and other cities) do. London is actually getting a little safer for the cyclist compared with more rural and northern towns where I live. Many drivers in London at least expect, and many even respect the cyclist. In the north, cyclists are frankly ignored on the road and are less frequent. In my experience it can get pretty scary. The message I'd like the campaign and government to consider, is more safety on the road for the cyclist full stop. I believe a change in Road Safety law is necessary with penalties (high ones) for any disrespect (see many cyclists video evidence of abuse from drivers) and poor quality drivers. Some of the penalties could be a driving ban which requires drivers (and lorry drivers) to pay for lessons and a repeat driving test. That ought to be a deterrent enough. Police too need to accept the aforementioned video evidence the moment they are provided it, without the need for a video campaign on the internet before they react. Keep up the campaign and on your front page and finally cyclists might have a voice of reason eventually in Westminster. Thank you and best wishes to Mary and her family.
Russell Hope
Ride to work in North London every day rain or shine. Most drivers are good but a minority are actively hostile. Common issues are 1. Attempting to overtake at places where traffic islands constrict the road width. 2. Racing to pass a cyclist before they have to pull out around a parked vehicle, boxing the cyclist in. 3. Overtaking, then immediately performing a left trun. 4. Pulling out in font of cyclist at junctions and round abouts. 5. Undertaking cyclist executing righthand turn when the car undertaking is also performing a righthand turn thus cutting the cyclist up and forcing the cyclist to stay in the middle of the road longer than required. Very dangerous IMO Worst road rage experienced, driver enraged at having to slow down to give way to me at a roundabout then proceeded to force me off the road almost mounting the car onto the pavement in doing so. Improvement I would like to see is to stop people parking on cycle lanes
Ruth Hadley
hello, I am from Germany but have been leaving in the UK for over 12 years of which the last 10 in Bristol - apparently bristol is Britain's cyclist friendliest city so I heard. For 10 years I am trying to psyche myself up to cycle to work- listening to the stories of friends who have been knocked of bikes. 2012 I decided to join the cycle2work scheme- getting excited about my new bike, helmet and saftey kit. coming from a "real" cycling friendly country - just like Holland - I CAN NOT believe how Bristol can be called cylist friendliest? I am scared to think what other cities in the country look like and I am NOT in the slightest surprised about The Times horrific stats. Its murder and its preventable. Well I will be asking my employer about health&safety regulations as I have now joint their scheme- their are usually very strict?!
Ruth Harper
I cycled to work for 8 years in London when I was working at Charing Cross Hospital on Fulham Palace Road. I couldn't afford a car and there was no where to park it any way. Looking back on this experience I was lucky to survive with only minor accidents. My current experience of riding to work for 10 years in Melbourne is very different. My ride today is along dedicated river cycle ways and wide on street paths. Melbourne and Victoria is passionate about riding and safety. I would suggest a visit to Melbourne for urban planner interested in riding - Bike Victoria is a fantastic organisation who relentlessly drives the safety message but never stops promoting the sheer enjoyment and benefits of riding.
Ruth Hobson
Cycle 12 miles each way each day to work. Mostly country side but some villages/city outskirts. It is not only the motorised vehicles that are a problem, but in the dark the poor road surfaces are also a major hazard.
Sadie Holland
I'm a midwife and I cycle between home visits and to work at the hospital. It's the quickest way to get about but I do worry about my safety.
sally harris
I love cycling and would cycle for more often if I felt safer. There is a cycle lane on Haydon's Road in Wimbledon for example but the traffic is so fast and the road so narrow that it doesn't feel safe at all.
Sally Hinchcliffe
when I lived in London, there were routes I just didn't cycle because there were places (especially roundabouts) where I'd been almost hit by a car so often it was getting unreal. I'd like to see our cities and towns look more like the Netherlands where there are cycle tracks everywhere and you just don't have to worry about which route you take or go miles out of your way to be safe
Sam Harris
never had any major promlems, but im often driven into hedges or having to brake sharply due to being cut up by a car, maybe there should be a law of a set distance that cars are allowed to over take a cyclist, for example, a 1 meter law. also, maybe a 25mph speed limit on cycle paths?
Samantha Hill
Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush. Cycle Lane. Always blocked by parked cars - double yellows NEVER policed by traffic wardens during the busiest periods of the day. You might find the odd one early in the morning. The danger to cyclists - and other pedestrians - is so high, yet nobody is interested in penalising the motorists for parking illegally. It seems it is more profitable to give parking fines to those parked on easy, quiet streets, raising revenue, than to confront the busy main road. What will it take a death for the Local Authority to take this seriously and encourage traffic wardens to police the busy main road? A death?
Sandra Howgate
There needs to be a shift in attitude, cyclists are still seen as pests on the road, something which doesn't happen in more cycle-friendly cities on the continent. It a lot to do with town planning and creating a safe zone for people to cycle, and also educating cyclists about the dangers of lorry 'blind spots' and empowering cyclists to be more confident on the road.
Sara Hall
A 14 year old boy at my grandsons' school was killed two weeks age whilst cycling to school. I would like to think that your petition could prevent another accident like this one
Sara Hinch
The way forward is to educate drivers and improve infrastructure. I cycle only four miles to work but will have numerous near misses every day when drivers pass too close - why is not drummed into drivers how dangerous this is. I also note that if I'm in a cycle path painted onto a road drivers will pass much more closely than if the cycle path wasn't there at all - they believe that as long as they are on their side of the white line they're ok.
Sarah Henderson
I have recently moved to London for work and I cycle for fitness reasons and because it is quicker than any other form of transport for my commute. However the disregard that cars, lorries and pedestrians all have for cyclists makes each commute a dangerous activity. Even other cyclists running red lights, trying to get ahead of each other cause difficulties.
Sarah Hester
I think the most important point of your manifesto is No. 4; building the cycle road infrastructure. Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam feel safer, even nice, to cycle in because the infrastructure is better than it is here. I think there are sections of road now in our cities where no-one actually walks (although there are pavements) and these should be turned primarily into cycle tracks. Where possible traffic and cyclists have to be separated. I think a physical barrier perhaps tall, high visibility but soft markers should line the edge of all cycle tracks, this would keep drivers off it. It is also a question of attitude. The attitude towards cyclists is better in other countries. Many car and lorry drivers here have never been on a bike themselves, don't know how it is cycling on a road (whoops, there's a drain cover, pot hole, broken glass; I need to move out; help, no room to move out, traffic right at my elbow, will have to just bump over it and let's hope I don't wobble AT ALL or I'll get hit) and in Britain drivers just seem to have a poor, nasty and backward attitude towards cyclists, just seeing them as a pest and in their way. To improve this attitude, as part of the driving test, drivers should be put on a bike and told to cycle down a busy road with pot holes etc., several times, to see what it's like. I recommend looking at Copenhagen's yearly "Bicycle Account" Report (and previous years) to see how they work on making their cities fit for cycling.
Sarah Hunt
I cycle to work everyday and have done for the last 12 years. Its a journey of 3 miles or so, and I have definitely noticed a massive increase in the lack of courtesy towards bikes and vice versa from both cyclist and motorists. If we all took more care and stuck to rules of the road, then perhaps we wouldn't annoy each other some much. However, I'd also like to add that being on a bike on the London roads takes a huge amount of bravery, and if every car driver had to experience this just once, then I'm sure they'd be less aggressive towards us. Two wheels and not 4 x4's are the way to go for all, so be brave and give it a try, the more of us there are, the more the powers that be will have to take note, and make it safe for all.
Saskia Hook
I am out on my bike training 6 days a week. On a regular basis I find myself battling with cars, lorries and vans cutting it far too close. It is quite simple; If i can touch your car, YOU'RE TOO CLOSE! I can't exactly say anything to a driver. Being a sixteen year old girl, out on her own, miles from home can put you in rather a vunerable position. I would love to see the roads made safer for cyclists.
seth hart
I was knocked off on a roundabout where i had right of way, It was a clear sunny morning and i was wearing a fluorescent yellow cycling jacket, The lady who came from the left and knocked me off came out with the classic "I didn't see you".I got paid out for injuries caused to my left shoulder that i fell on but 2 operations later and the compensation is spent but my shoulder will never be right again.As an advanced driver and cyclist i think it's time that drivers stop looking down their noses at cyclists and show more respect for us a s road users and also learn to open their eye's to the world around them as they drive.
Simon Handley
Roads are in such a bad state of repair that we as cyclist have to negotiate around pot holes and sunken drains, etc. this then puts us in danger of being squashed by the traffic. Having been involved in a near miss with a car when it chose to use the cycle path as an extra lane, we need to something like rumble strips between the cyclepath and road when it is shared. just like hard shoulders
Simon Harris
Cycle to work most days, from chiswick w4 o canary wharf. Whilst there are great cycle paths up to trafalgar square and after tower of London, the 3 miles between is extremely busy with hgvs, buses and taxis, with no protection for cyclists. There s plenty of space or something, and plenty of cyclists use this route so any solution would be highly used.
Simon Hawkins
It is not as simple as educating cyclists, lorry drivers or even redesigning roads. The challenge is to educate PEOPLE. We are road users in one way or another, some of us walk, cycle and drive. Some do two of the three, some just one. Everyone has the responsibility to behave responsibly. As someone who cycles in London, I feel I use common sense. I've jumped the occasional red light but only at a speed at which I know I can stop if I'm going to cause someone a problem. What I can't abide are people stepping out into the cycle lane or road without checking for a cyclist first. They can't hear a car so they don't bother looking. I also find cycle lanes with kerbs between them and the road a hazard - pedestrians treat them more often than not as an extension of the pavement. I'd rather chance my arm against traffic.
Simon Heath
I am fortunate as I have a great route to work in Northampton which is traffic free for most of the route. However, I have plenty of experience of cycling in London and am amazed there are not more accidents. Segregation is vital if we are to encourage more to join us happy, but endangered, band of cyclists. I would cycle more in and around Northampton but there are some routes I just would not risk as they are high speed unlit routes that do not even have pavements let alone cycle paths. Many people living in rural villages are trapped there unless they have access to a car to help them negotiate a safe passage out.
simon heathorn
The Government must make it safer for cyclists; at present it is a risk to cycle!
Simon Helyar
Where there are not cycle lanes there is a general lack of awareness by drivers, where i have been knocked off my bike by a driver who quicly drove around me to get past me and then came into traffic and braked hard directly after pulling in front of me, i couldn't brake as fast and went into the back of her. She claims she didn;t see me, but i think motorists are not aware and thinking about cyclists while they are driving and don't anticipate them.
Simon Henson
I'm just a road cyclist who knows how dangerous it is to ride on Country roads. In my experience, skip lorries and white van man are the worst offenders. Big trucks sometimes don't realise the huge draught they cause and how a cycle can be destabilised by a truck at close quarters.
Simon Hicks
Having cycle-commuted all my life I decided that my nine lives had been exhausted and I decided to work overseas. I still live in the UK but whilst I miss my daily stamp on the pedals, I do not miss the daily battles with HGVs, buses and commuting motorists. The most dangerous section of my Aberdeen cycle-commute was designated National Cycle Route Number 1: Aberdeen's Mugiemoss Road; a joke to any knowledgeable local cyclist. It would be fantastic if the UK government and local councils adopted a more Scandinavian approach to town planning and provided permeable and segregated cycle networks pro-actively; instead of reactively satisfying quotas via arbitrary placement of white-dashed lines on road verges. "If you build it, they will come!" Currently, despite being a passionate advocate for the 'beautiful machine' I predict some hard personal decisions having to be made when my child wants to cycle on British roads. Great Britain is now a great cycling nation in sport. With some careful planning and much urban restructuring perhaps we can become a great cycling nation about town.
simon Howe
I do not feel overly safe any more. A keen cyclist but things are getting much worse
Simon Langton Hewer
20 mph speed limit, 4foot clearance for passing vehicles, local council engagement in solving safe cycle routes for school and work. Now is the time for all these changes as every cycling death is unnecessary and is preventable. Thank you for running this cam
Siobhan Hanly
It was the 1st June 2011 I was preparing for a cycle trip, London to Devon. It was the eve of my departure and I took a spin round the block to test a new speadometer I had fitted. I was cycling along Clapham High Street, passing McDonalds and a car door opened in my path. I was thrown about 5 foot into the road. I was lucky no cars were coming and after a trip to A&E I felt blessed to only have a sore head and stiff arm. It was three weeks before I could ride again and set off on my journey June 26th. I reach Devon with no problems. Outside London, drivers were much more respectful toward ciclist, apart from the one that egged me!
Steph Heller
I am the mother of a number of sons - all who have been encouraged to cycle from an early age. Over the years they have experienced near misses and bad driving that has given me cause for great concern for their safety. My Dad cycled until he was 80 and enjoyed every minute, it kept him fit even when he couldn't walk! Any improvement to safety of cyclists will be supported by me and my family and then I can continue to encourage the great sport to my grandchildren of the future!
Stephanie henshaw
I was knocked off my bike by a double decker bus. My arm went into the rear wheel arch. Fortunately it spat it out again as I was holding on to my handlebars. The driver left me on my back in the middle of a roundabout. When they eventually caught up with him he said he had driven off because he hadn't seen me. He then said it was my fault because I undertook him (which I didn't). So he must have seen me, mustn't he? The bus company apologised and I claimed through private accident cover for a new bike which the bus company paid for through their insurance. I was very lucky.
Stephen Hart
I was knocked off my bike in Farringdon Road last February, riding home in the cycle lane! A Ferrari pulled out from the junction at Snow Hill sending me flying, landing sprawled on the road. I was badly winded but fortunately suffered a swollen knee only. My big worry is that following traffic could have driven over me but fortunately passing cyclists stopped the traffic. My bike was mangled, the driver gave me his business card - an investment banker. - and quickly drove off. it had all clearly been terribly inconvenient for him. I still cycle but have changed my routs - that junction is one that had worried me before, but there aree other unavoidable spots in London that could be vastly improved with a bit more thought about road design, as well as improved driver awareness.
Stephen Hawkins
Cycle every weekend, Its journey without being cut up, sworn at, things thrown at, jolted by potholes, long waits at traffic lights cos they are timed based on magnetic sensors for cars and ignore bikes. Car drivers need educating that we dont all travel at 5 mph and have as much right to use the roads as they do
Stephen Hickey
Hi there, Great campaign. I don't live in London anymore, but when I did I always thought about cycling into work for my commute. The thought of cycling in London's heavy traffic though put my off the idea. I hope this campaign helps more like me. I live in Sydney now and have done for the last five years. Here I commute to work everyday. I travel 10kms to and from work everyday and I love it. My commute in London would have been far more, but it's the traffic that always put me off. The traffic here in Sydney is not as thick, and the mayor here has done her best to open as many cycle ways as possible for commuters. It has definitely improved in my time here. However, what hasn't improved in Sydney (and I believe is Australia wide - check out the Shane Warne case in Melbourne) is the attitude of motorists to cyclists. It borders on hostile and sometimes can be aggressively dangerous. It is a mindset that needs to change, with cooperation on both sides. By starting this campaign you are a leading light that I hope cities in Australia will follow. The more media this gets (worldwide) the safer our roads will be for ALL users. Thank you, and I can only hope Sydney follows your lead. Stephen
Stephen Hume
I have been cycling in London for many years and noticed how popular cycling has become. The roads remain designed for motor traffic and cyclists must ride defensively, and in some cases such as busy junctions it can be safer to ignore the highway code. There is more cycle-awareness nowadays but still much to do - and importantly it needs to be structural rather than cosmetic.
steve hanlon
I cycle 16 miles every weekday & travel in early to avoid the traffic, however the return journey in the evening rush is very dangerous. I travel between Newcastle and Gateshead and my biggest fear is getting wiped out by a car. In November I got cut up by a (female) car and ended up on the pavement, sustaining bruising and a torn muscle in my left shoulder, I still have the injury now more than three months later. As a family we cycle in France annually and how well cyclists are looked after there.
Steve Harper
Cycling on the road does carry the risk of death or serious injury. If these risks are lessened by changes in attitude and education or by practical measures, then I agree that we should do something about it. I'm keen though, that the balance of messages should still stress the positives and most importantly, that people shouldn't be put off cycling by fear. I was a 34 year old, 5'10," nearly 16 stone medical emergency waiting to happen. I'd been diagnosed with worrying high blood pressure and got out of breath walking up a flight of stairs. A doctor suggested that I'd be lucky to make it much past 40. Fortunately this shocked me into trying to do something about it, so I bought a bike. It was a hateful machine that cost less than a hundred quid new from a North London bike shop. It had screws that undid themselves regardless of how much I tightened them, so accessories like mudguards or the rack either fell off and were left behind on the road or became lodged in my back wheel. It had a large built-in lump in one of the tyres which made even smooth roads irritatingly bumpy and an assortment of gears which were mostly inappropriate for any scenario and in any case, would change themselves without warning whenever doing so was least convenient. I had to fight this bike daily and would dread trying to get over Hampstead or Highgate's hills so much that I'd often chain it up and get the bus home. I was delighted after a year, someone did me a favour and nicked it. I almost packed it in then but instead persuaded myself to spend £750 on a fast hybrid. It had straight handlebars but was in most other respects like a racer. At last I had a bike I enjoyed riding and I loved it. I was hooked. I lost 3 ½ stone, sold the hybrid and bought an out-and-out racing road bike (£1,800) then tried my first 100mile+ event, riding through the night from London to the Suffolk coast. I followed this with the London to Canterbury Tour stage in 2007 and then decided to tackle La Marmotte, an iconic but brutal one day event over four massive Alpine climbs. I spent an awful lot of time on the road training and commuting, then went nervously for my pre-ride medical. I needn't have worried. Without ever having any medication for hypertension, my blood pressure was now just fine. To get to the point; I completed La Marmotte and now ride at least one major mountain cyclosportive every year. Cycling turned me from the brink of being a medical basket-case and gave me my life back. So while there is a danger of being killed or maimed when riding on Britain's roads, people should carefully consider the real balance of risk before deciding not to do it. In the words of an advert currently in the cycling press, "Hills hurt. Couches kill".
Steve Hill
Cycling through Plymouth last week, I was dangerously close to being knocked off my bike by a van driver. I caught up with him at a set of traffic lights, banged on his window and reminstrated with him. After a frank exchange of words he turned right and I turned left. Five minutes later the same van overtook me and my wife (we were cycling to a local bike shop to purchase a new road bike for my wife). The van pulled up, the driver leapt out and stopped me in my tracks. During his foul verbal abuse he threatened to punch me twice and called my wife unmentionable names. At no time did he think to apologise for driving too close, instead he questioned our right to be on the road. Although this exchange didn't frighten me, to be honest I was almost willing him to throw the first punch, it did on reflection shake us up to the point of considering giving up cycling because we cyclist are so vulnerable. I am 43, have cycled regularly for six years including long cycles through France and John o Groates to Lands End and am fed up with the attitude of many drivers. By the way, my experience of cycling in France is far more pleasurable than in this country!
Steve Howe
Great to see your campaign taking off! I live in beautiful, historic Chester which has been designated a 'cycling demonstration town'. The place remains a nightmare to cycle in despite this. More towpaths, sure, and a fine greenway we had to fight tooth and nail to preserve but virtually nothing at all has been done to deal with the roads and a particularly lethal bridge crossing the railway.
steve howes
I was attacked by a transit van driver who initially cut me up. I getured as one would honk ones car horn is disgust at this arrogant driving attitude towrd me. He knew I was there but decided to cut me up and close too. At my gesture he braked, reveresed, stopped from over and or under taking. The passenger openned his window and spat at me. When we both stopped the driver got out hurling verbal at me and proceeded to attack me. Cool! I was wearing a headcam and this went to court. It not just the driving that is bad, it the bad attitude towards cyclists in general and the threats and attacks we have to put up with. Drivers need to think that they are driving 1 tonnes + of kiling machine, add that to the bad attitude and deaths will occur. That was 16th june 2011. Sept 13th of all days saw a car side swipe me hurling me some 20-30 ft, as one witness said, the driver reckoned on not seeing me...agin though my headcam never lies. The ambulance crew who attended said I was very very lucky as they only and most often just come to collect whats left.
steven hentschel
I ride past a school on my way to work. On the opposite side of the road there is always a line of parked mum trucks. As I ride past the stationary nearly everyday a car will hurtle in the opposite direction on their wrong side of the straight towards me forcing me into the gutter. These people probably don't realise their driving is dangerous. I blame the driving instructors.
Stuart Hepburn
Cycle lanes make sense, but only on log stretches of road. Cycle lanes that are broken by roads only encourage cyclists not to use them. As I have experienced car drivers can assume that we must use the cycle lane?! When you are cycling through town doing 20mph why should we? The cars shouldn't really be going much quicker anyway?
Stuart Hincks
I live in Teesside and travel everywhere by bike. To be honest Teesside doesn't have the best road cycle links. It has loads of amazing scenic routes for cyclists to take but not ones through the towns and cities. Monday 23 a cyclist was killed in Teesside on the A19, such a tragedy. But could this have been avoided if there was a local cycle path he could have taken. Cycling is a great pleasure and experience. You get through the jams a lot quicker than been in the car. It is also a good keep fit.
Stuart Holden
I used to cycle to work everyday for years. Since moving into SE1 two years ago, 5 cyclist have been killed on my 2 mile route to work. After a close call with a bus on Tower Bridge, I decided to call it a day. Cycling is by far the most convenient way to get around the city, but it's far too dangerous for me these days. RIP
Sue Holden
My son's close friend, Dan Cox, was killed in London exactly a year ago today run over by a lorry. Dan was only 27. My son and his girlfriend have been deeply affected. Dan's mother will never get over the tradegy. My younger son James and his friends cycle in London. I want to add my name to the campaign to make London a safer city for cyclists.
Susan harrison
Ive cycled for most of my life and had lots of near misses (including this evening on my way home when a car overshot the junction) and two bad accidents resulting in injury, neither of which were my fault. There's a lot of rhetoric about promoting cycling and reducing the numbers of cars on the road but precious little action to make this a (safe) reality.
Susan Helliwell
I think that the cycle lanes, if not on paths, should have audible painted lines (like on some motorways) on the traffic side, so any other traffic putting their wheels in the cycle lane are made aware that they are doing so. I often see cars cross into the cycle lane just before they want to turn left or at turns in the road and I suspect they do not even realise they are doing it. I have had my handlebars knocked/ had to break quickly on several occasions and drivers do not even notice! As a cyclist I try my best to be visible, but I feel some comment should be made regarding visibility of some cyclists - many wear dark clothing and have no lights so this should also be included in the campaign. Cyclists should also be reminded to stick to road rules - not jump lights etc. It is not always the other traffic that is in the wrong!
Susanna Harris
It is time that this problem addressed by those with the power to do so.
Susanne Houlder
My partner and I cycle everywhere. When we first met we both lived in Cornwall and were cycling 30+ miles a day for commuting (bearing in mind they don't have as good roads as cities, most are windy national speed limits). Six months ago we moved to Bristol, cycling city and all that. My partner has had 2 accidents involving car drivers whose "oh sorry I didn't see you" was the best they could do. He has been off work injured twice, so sick pay down to satutory which is not enough to live on. I cycle across the city every day, it can't be more than a few miles. Yet I lose count of the number of near misses and bad behaviour of other road users (and appauling road layout) I encounter. It doesn't make a difference the length of your journey, it can be a short nip into the city with 'cycle paths' galore ending up to be far more dangerous than miles of windy cornish roads. Our cities need to take the bull by the horns and make some actual difference. Those who cycle should be getting the best damn treatment there is (priority on roads, and good quality roads) as we are the ones actively reducing traffic jams and pollution. We are the ones doing some good... Copenhagen has got it right, is doing it right so that's proof it isn't so hard to do! We can do it.
Suzanne Hutson
I don't cycle in London because I don't feel safe doing so. I have been on cycling holidays in France and I love being on a bike, but the drivers in London don't give you enough space and I've seen the way cyclists get treated by buses and taxis. There are considerate drivers out there (maybe they are cyclists themselves?) but it only takes one bad driver to end a life.
Suzi Hogg
I frequently cycle into work along Pollokshaws Road(A77) in Glasgow to the city centre. This route is definitely cycle friendly. There are no cycle lanes which means you have to share the bus lanes which come hurtling down the road. There are many potholes which can be hard to spot until the last minute when it'd be just as dangerous to pull out than to go through them.
Suzy Harrison
I cycle everywhere - all the time, I find it hard to travel by any other mode regardless of weather or distance! I think London is getting better but the main worry is the driving of HGVs. They are dangerous in cities as they are not built for city roads, instead for motorways with long sight distances. I agree that all HGVs need to be specially prepared with sensors and mirrors etc and that all drivers have to go through a course of cyclist awareness training. Safe and effective road sharing is key. If every road user was sympathetic to others' experiences then the roads would be safer places.
Tanya Hunt
I was hit by a rock thrown from a car window by a group of teenagers and have been squirted with a drink of some kind whilst cycling in Wiltshire. Drivers in the UK never give you enough room and often cut you up hurling abuse, an old man hit me with his wing mirror once and didnt even see he'd hit me. I race for a team in the UK and abroad so have to train on the roads, I always wonder what will happen next. Drivers need to take more care passing cyclists, I always thank the ones who do.
Terry Howe
Although now retired, I used to cycle to work,8 miles each way. I found that cycle path provision is disjointed and some authorities pay lip service to cyclists. Narrow lanes alongside the kerb are inadequate and can be dangerous.
Thomas Hagemann
You have my wholehearted support!! Near misses every day in the city!
Thomas Lionel Harvey
Just a little more room when you go past at 60 mph in the wind
Tim Hague
I no longer live in the UK, but when I lived in Fulham I cycled to work every day - fortunately without incident (though there were some close ones!) I did however witness an incident where a motorist deliberately ran down a cyclist (around 1998, I think) which I reported to the police. Based on my testimony, along with others', the driver pleaded guilty. The cyclist was severely injured, and probably disfigured still.
Tim Harvey
I am a keen cyclist who rides mostly in the country where I have found vehicles to be far more courteous than the city as they are used to coming round the corner to find various 'goings-on' that slow them down e.g tractors, cows going to milking, horses being exercised etc... By far the worst drivers tend to be vans - the other day I was cycling on a slight downhill on a straight A road, a van was overtaking from the opposite direction and was therefore on my side of the road - I had to cycle into the ditch to avoid being killed. Vans in my experience often see cyclists as people who seem to have deliberately gone out of their way to slow them down and hence drive by you as close as they can to show you how annoyed they are that cyclists have the bare cheek to actually cycle on the same road as they might be going on - I appreciate this is extreme and by no means representative of most van drivers.
Tim Hinson
Introduce a blanket 20 mile an hour limit in built up areas.
Tim Hobden
I am 43 years old and first joined a cycling club when I was 12. I have been a club/racing/recreational cyclist all my life and spent 12 months as a cycle courier in central London in the early 1990's. I now compete in triathlon up to IronMan distance. In those 31 years I have averaged between 100 and 450 miles per week and have cycled throughout the UK and Europe. I fully support The Times campaign and my thoughts and prayers are with Mary Bowers and her family and friends. I feel that the main thrust of the campaign should be on rider training and most importantly there needs to be legislation against the use of headphones whilst cycling. To ride safely on ANY road a cyclist needs to develop a 'sixth sense' about what is going on around them. This comes partly through training and experience but cannot exist at all if one of your body's main senses is lost through listening to music. Headphones are banned in all forms of competitive cycling for one good reason: Rider safety. Nowadays, when I'm out riding, as I approach another cyclist from behind I always look for headphones and I am alarmed by the number I see. As I pass a rider wearing them I always give them a wide berth because, knowing that they are blissfully unaware of me, I have experienced and now fully expect some fairly erratic displays of poor bike craft. The millions of people new to cycling must give road riding the respect it deserves, a respect I learned through the teachings of the senior club members of the CTC and the various cycling clubs I rode with as a young man. Hope that helps! Tim Hobden.
Tim Hoyle
I am a regular cycle commuter out of choice. I have had to learn to hold my space on the road to block vehicles passing where it is unsafe, and pull out early for obstacles. Impatient drivers are dangerous, and their attitude in this country is what needs to change. Accidents happen, lets make them less likely to happen. Angry and dangerous drivers also happen, how do we solve that?
Tim Hoyle
White van (or in this case Red) man nearly got me. Out gfor a road spin with a friend he came at me on my side of the straight road whilst overtaking a loprry. Did he see me? I don't know but I was dressed very visibly. With tall hedges either side there was nowhere for me to go - he must have missed me by less than an inch - according to my friend behind. Just plain uncaring driving which is what puts me off cycling in the UK. Sent from France where we are getting some winter cycling exercise. Tim Hoyle
Tim Hudson
I no longer live in London but moved to Milton Keynes where the town is set up for cyclists, a totally different experience. However as a triathlete I do cycle out in the country a lot and seem toberto be fair game for young lads in cars to buzz and do their best to try and push you off as you go past. This must have happened to me 4 times last year. This behaviour must be learnt somewhere, presumably their parents. Mostly it's a verbal assault about paying tax that accompanies this, when they seem to forget that certainly outside of London most cyclists are also motorists and have paid for the privilege of being on the road and probably have better road sense than those abusing us.
Tim Hughes
I travel to work every day by bicycle. This journey is 37 miles round trip or 185 miles per week if you want to look at it that way. I travel all year round with ice tyres in winter, I'm probably one of the few hardy cyclist who battles through the meanest of weather. I love my commuting and can only recommend it for the health benefits, the environmentally friendly aspects of it and of course the cost benefits. Unfortunately it only takes one driver (of any type of vehicle) who doesn't have two seconds to live or who intentionally endangers my life to really spoil it. I truly believe that a very small percentage of the population are actually capable of driving safely, on top of this I believe any speed above 30MPH (except motorways) is too fast, cut speed limits and cut road deaths (of all kinds). Furthermore (slightly off topic though), 70MPH is plenty and probably too much on motorways, what idiot really believes their £30K car will protect them in an accident at 90MPH, they are just living in a dream world. Speed kills, simple. Poor attention at road junction kills too.
Timothy Harris
20mph in residential areas is a starting point. I commute by bike and it is not possible to do the journey without going through very dangerous junctions that simply do not cater for cyclists. This needs to change.
Tina Hughes
I worry so much when I see cyclists without helmets.
Tobyn Horton
In my opinion there are two types of drivers. Those that are oblivious to the fact they have nearly knocked you off your bike and run you down. The others are those who know perfectly well what their doing and think its ok to threaten you with their car for holding them up or just because they can! its not on!
Tom Harle
Places like my home town of Cardiff seem to score highly in the current cycling charts because they have extensive cycle routes on paper - in practice these are red stripes of road underneath double yellow lines, which because of traffic warden cut backs are constantly parked on - it's not enough to say you have x miles of cycle route if nothing is being done to make sure they are wide, safe and clear for use
Tom Harvey
I used to cycle with a road club in northumberland, riding in a group feels safer in traffic. It is easier for cars to see you and more pairs of eyes to look out for danger. Now I'm in London I find pedestrians are the worst danger, they are unpredictable and seem to think bikes will just swerve round them, which is not always possible.
Tom Helliwell
I live in Rotherham cycle into work, there are no cycle lanes on my 30min commute only only dual carageways. This can be scary at times especially on cold mornings when cars are driving around with frosted up windows.
Tom Hendry
I cycled to school for many years and several times I was endangered by unthinking drivers. It was significant that bus drivers were the most careful, whilst white van and lorry drivers were the least. My observations today make me think that drivers who are have been cyclists are the most caring.
Tom Hine
Cyclists are vulnerable and need to be given more protection. It is a great way of getting around, but hasn't taken off because of our lack of a proper infrastructure. I support the Times campaign and would be happy to donate money to it. As a cyclist, I would also be happy to pay for special cycle lanes that were safe.
Tom Hooper
I wholeheartedly support your manifesto. Half of my journey to work was on cycle track and half on the road-the contrast is stark. It is incredible to think that cars and lorries travelling at 40-50mph share the same roadspace as a person on a bicycle. I am staggered that the budget for cycling infrastructure is not far greater.
Tom Hopes
I cycle 6 miles to work and back in London every day. We desperately need a proper cycle infrastructure to make cycling safe, and more awareness from drivers to create more civility on the streets.
Tom Hughes
Interested to hear the detail of the manifesto, and to support the cause. Further to these important details - and it's a bit of a chicken and egg one, this - there must be a shift in the balance of power on the roads, and the perception of the most basic of our rights when we are sharing this space. Rightly or wrongly we have fostered a culture of 'might is right'. The danger to cyclists is simply one manifestation of the assumption that cars have the absolute priority - whether they are moving, stationary, or even parked. This affects everything: the way traffic moves; the congestion it produces; even the landscape of our streets. The depressing sight of pedestrians waiting patiently yet pathetically to cross the road is one aspect of this, as is the way pedestrian parents instil fear and reverence in their children towards the road and drivers. Cyclists forced to marginalise themselves - physically - in terms of their positioning on the road is another. But it needs to be a two-way street (no pun intended). As a passionate cyclist I am irked by the lack of respect for the laws of the road that other riders show; if you nip through red lights, fail to indicate, refuse to use lights at night etc, then you are undermining every other cyclist on the road, and the seriousness with which drivers will take us all. There needs to be greater respect for all on the roads, and then we can begin to approach some level of equality between driver, cyclist and pedestrian.
Tony Hanmer
i am a recreational cyclist and occasionally commute by bike15 miles to liverpool. Road facilities for cyclists in Liverpool are appalling and although cycle lanes are in place leading into wigan, they are dangerous. One area locally that i i use the Rainford bypass and the East lLancashire Road from St Helens to Liverpool have reinstated the old cycle ways that I presume have existed since the 1930's and they are excellent, safe and separate from motor vehicles. I do think that speed limits in built up areas need to be reduced and Traffic lights, calming measures and roundabouts are areas that require attention
Tony Henton
Cities should, without doubt, be safe for cyclists who must be protected from injury by motor vehicles. It is also important that cyclists should not ride on footpaths to avoid causing danger to pedestrians, except where dual use is permitted and signed. Cyclists must also contribute to their own safety by using lights at night, both at the front and rear and by not riding in an erratic manner, weaving in and out of stationary and slow moving traffic.
Tony hood
I commute into Manchester through Salford. Recently Salford have undertaken a huge remodelling of the crescent - a route used by any cyclist entering Manchester from the West and North West. The works have made what was once a relatively safe part of my route into a death trap as I now have to cross three lanes of traffic, all fighting to move over. If Salford had designed their plans around the philosophy of 'discouraging cyclist from commuting to Manchester' they could not have done a better job. The irony is, there is a national cycle route entering Manchester in this area and I have looked for it, I have followed maps detailing its supposed route but dispute my best efforts I cannot find it. The best way to encourage cyclist to commute into and around cities is to ensure ther are key safe access routes to enter the city, clearly signed and with cyclist priority.
Tony Howe
I'm a recreational cyclist, owning both road and mountain bikes. I have been knocked off my road bike twice by motorists.Both incidents happened at junctions. In the first, the motorist coming towards me turned right into a side road. She hadn't noticed me, despite my bright clothing, and crossed my path so close that I couldn't stop. I hit her front nearside wing at about 20mph and and somersaulted on to the car bonnet. Luckily, I was uninjured, but my bike was written off. We exchanged details and the woman's insurer paid for a new bike, cycling shoes and helmet. A witness kindly returned me and broken bike home in their car. My second collision happened when I was turning right from a major into a minor road. A motorist waiting to turn right from the minor road pulled out, having failed to anticipate my speed, and hit me on my right side. I fell into the road, landing on my right shoulder and the right side of my head whiplashed on to the road surface. I was wearing a helmet, that was cracked by the impact. As I slid down the road, the skin was scraped from my right cheek and I suffered abrasions to my right arm and leg. Again, there were witnesses who offered help. The driver, a man of over 70, seemed more shocked than me. He drove me home and subsequently paid for new wheels, forks, pedals and bar tape, to repair the bike, and a new helmet and cycling shoes. My cuts and bruises mended quickly, but it was several months before I was free of pain from whiplash. I consider myself lucky to have got off lightly from these incidents and that the drivers involved were sympathetic. I hope they take more care now. Both incidents happened at junctions with car drivers travelling at low speeds and it seems to me that driver vigilance is more important than speed in reducing cycling accidents.
val harper
I cycle to work 5 days a week on my Brompton. Not only am I careful when cycling alongside buses/lorries/vans etc but am also careful generally as the road surface is generally extremely poor. Something should be done about improving the road surface, as I've seen and have been involved in near misses due to uneven road surfaces.
Valerie Halsey
My daughter a physiotherapist at St. Mary's Hospital Paddington cycles from home in Ruislip to Paddington and back each day. I really worry about her on the dangerous parts of her journey. I am wholly in support of your campaign calling for cities to be made fit for cyclists and pledge my support 100%.
Valerie Harbolovic
I am a former cyclist who rarely cycles now because I do not wish to be killed, or worse, survive an injury that leaves me horribly impaired (head or spinal cord injury) for the rest of my life.
Vicki Hambly
I only cycle small distances in central London and am thankful that I have never been involved in any incidents. Nonetheless the times when I have come home cursing to my flatmates about the total ignorance some drivers have of cyclists, whether they have cut me up, stopped right in front of me with no warning or swerved round a corner into the wrong side of the road where I am approaching. These moments are far too common and I do cycle fully aware of the likelihood that one day I won't react quite quick enough and perhaps won't escape scot free.
Victoria Harrison
Proper cycle lanes are a must, sharing lanes with buses is crazy. I have seen numerous cyclists get cut up by buses who over take them and then pull in at the bus stop. I work 4 miles from home but a lack of safe cycle path's means I am too scared to cycle to work.
Vikki Harold
Other than the Cycling proficiency test in primary school, if cycling and greener travel and exercise are to be further promoted then safety and visibility need to be key too. More information and education on road laws for cyclists and safety awareness.
Vivien Heenan
Thank you for this opportunity to tell you one of my stories. This is about cyclists, not about making roads safer. One night in January I left work about 4.30 when it was getting dark. I stopped at a junction with a dual carriageway, where the road provided a lay-by to make it easier to join the main road. After several cars had passed, I saw a gap in the traffic and, keeping my eyes on my wing mirror to make sure that it was safe to pull out, I began pulling out, only to hear the sound of a horn, so I stopped, surprised that there must have been a vehicle I hadn't seen. A motorcyle passed me, and continued along the road. After I had driven for some distance, I overtook the motorcyle, and saw to my horror that it had no front lights at all, despite the fact that the motorcyclist was wearing yellow clothing with reflective strips. I wound the window down to shout and tell him he had no lights. I only hope he heard me before anything worse happened to him. I often notice cyclists with no lights and wearing dark clothing and sometimes no helmet, riding at night on roads and pavements and I often stop and warn them that they are invisible to motorists and other road users. I wish there was a public service advert to warn them how dangerous it is not to be seen. I see signs saying "Think Bike", and I think we should have lots of signs saying "Think lights!" for cyclists, and put adverts on TV.
Volker Heesen
I am from Germany, and one of the main differences to Britain is the provision of cycle lanes separated from the road or at least on the hard shoulder. These cycle should be existing in Britain as well! They would be particularly useful along major A- and B-roads. Britain's cycle paths are mostly useful only for recreational use but not for commuting. They do not follow the shortest connection along major roads, but somehow wind along little lanes and backroads. This is fine for a leisurely ride on Sunday but not for everyday's use. I am commuting from St. Albans to Hatfield on an old railway path "Alban Way". This path is unlit thus does not feel very safe at night. Also, a large fraction of the way is in a very bad tarmac state. The way is otherwise cleaned and serviced, but for cyclist it could be much better by improving the tarmac. There is a direct A-road between St. Albans and Hatfield but it has no cycle lane and it is full with cars. It is certainly much less dangerous than roads in London, but still it feels crammed. I would very much welcome if the council of St. Albans would take responsibility and provide the Alban way with proper cycling provisions. Volker Heesen, St. Albans
Warren Hatter
Every day I'm cycling, I'm struck by how everyone's lives - not just cyclists' - would be enhanced by reversing the way that cars have come to dominate my city. Pedestrians and cyclists are expected to bow to motorised transport, to the extent that it's self-fulfilling: it makes sense to drive because the sustainable options make you feel so marginalised.
Wendy Houston
Please don't forget about those of us who live inthe countryside. I want to be able to go on family bike rides safely and for our daughters to be able to cycle to their grandparents house without putting themselves at risk every time.
Will Hurst
I cycle just a few miles a day to and from work and try to avoid major junctions as I'm very aware of the risks. However, I'm constantly put in danger by impatient drivers overtaking on narrow roads. It enrages me that they are not more aware of how vulnerable cyclists are and often don't gain anything by overtaking a bike. Greater public awareness and better formal training of all drivers is the way forward.
William Harbage
This is not a new problem. I was knocked off my bike 3 times in a year cycling to law school in London in 1983/84. We must act now to avoid more deaths and injuries. For every death and injury there are hundreds of us who have had umpteen near misses. We were lucky.
William Heath
Used to be a London motorcyclist. Switched to bicycle in 2006. Love it; fresh air, energy, speed, reliable journey times, flexibility. I notice the efforts made to accommodate cyclists, some quite expensive, But many seem poorly designed: stupid cycle lanes with poor road surfaces in already narrow roads which force single file cyclists. Special extra red lights which stop cyclists for longer. We need to work out cyclist etiquette to avoid regulation. Is it in practice ok to filter at red lights when no-one is there? I support this campaign; wdnt be aware of dangers of lorries turning if it wasnt for desperately sad stories such as this.
Wolfgang H.Ott
I used to cycle more than 2,000m per yeat to go to work.I would have been killed at least three times or taken to hospital man times, had I not given up my right of way!My piece of advice to cyclists: consider every other driver a "complete idiot" and cycle accordingly
Zak Corum Haines
I Cycle to my school everyday, it's quite a short one though. The roads I ride on arn't that busy, but there still is the chance of a road accident.
Zoe Hart
I love cycling in London, there's lots of positives with new cycle lanes and lovely parks. However more are needed, Having spent many years cycling from Wood Green to Battersea and back every day, the worst place in London for a bike is Trafalgar Square. I used to take a deep breath and try and complete the the roundabout without taking another as the C02 from the busses and taxis was too much for my lungs to take. I think it's really important for our children to feel safe and see their parents (like me) taking to the roads and leaving their cars behind. I currently use my 3G stepper Bike to pick up my daughter from school on, but that's as far as it goes, I wouldn't be riding it around town with her on as it's far too dangerous both from being knocked off and from the high level of C02 emissions. A trip back from London one day revealed that I had a high level of Carbon Monoxide in my lungs (10 more than the average smoker!) where my usual amount is just 3! please please please lets make London a truly lovely place to cycle. I'll be out on my new 3G Stepper Bike a lot more this year what with the 2012 Olympics on the way I think it's high time the government took the next step!
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