New statistics show that the number of cycle deaths and injuries has risen, especially in London. The number killed or seriously injured rose by 19 per cent to 820 in the three months to June. The rise is probably linked to larger numbers of cyclists taking to the road, many of whom are inexperienced or have not ridden on public roads for many years. There was a 12% increase in cycling between 2007 and 2008. However, the behaviour of drivers, particularly lorry drivers, has also caused many cyclist deaths, notably in large urban cities. In London at least six female cyclists were killed by lorries in the first six months of the year.
Richard George, roads campaigner at Campaign for Better Transport said,
“Riding a bike is a great way to get about, but cyclists are particularly vulnerable to careless and dangerous driving. The Government must make sure people feel safe while cycling, by taking bad driving seriously and making sure that cycle training is available to anyone who needs it.”
Leigh Day & cyclists
Leigh Day acts for many cyclists in the UK who have been involved in road traffic crashes. Penny Knight, partner and head of the cycling and sports injury team, has also had to attend a number of inquests where cyclists have been killed because of the dangerous behaviour of car or lorry drivers. She has represented the family of a man who was killed by a lorry driver who was texting as he drove along; attended the inquest of a young woman who was hit on the slip road by a car turning left; and represented the family of a woman who was killed when she was hit by a concrete lorry turning left whose driver did not check his mirrors.
Penny says:
“I have attended far too many inquests of cyclists who have died on the UK’s roads. Some are because of poorly designed roads or the dangerous actions of inconsiderate drivers but they are all tragic and unnecessary”.
To speak to a member of the cycling team please contact
Penny Knight on 020 7650 1200.
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