Lothian and Borders Police are launching an autumn and winter campaign to promote cycle safety in the South of Edinburgh.
The initiative, which starts tomorrow 2 October 2012, will see officers engage with motorists and cyclists in the Liberton and Gilmerton areas of the city and make them aware of their responsibilities on the roads. (Our photo shows a group of cyclists arriving for the annual Spokes Bike Breakfast in June.)
Police will be on patrol at traffic lighted junctions to educate drivers about Advanced Stopping Lines (the red area marked for pedal bikes at traffic lights), which are designed to make junctions safer for cyclists.
Cyclists are being encouraged to use lights and wear high visibility clothing, and are also being reminded not to abuse red lights. Drivers are being reminded to slow down and give room when passing cyclists.
Riders will also be given a leaflet entitling them to 10% off cycle lights at a number of local bike shops in the capital for a limited period.
As the campaign continues into October, officers plan to focus on the large number of commuters who travel to and from the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on a day-to-day basis.
A partnership ‘Streets Ahead’ event has been scheduled to take place at the hospital on Monday 29 October 2012, where officers will be on hand to offer road safety advice to cyclists.
A limited number of free cycle marking services and free maintenance inspections will also be carried out for any interested members of the public during the event.
During the forthcoming winter months, various police enforcement days will be carried out across the South and East of the city to ensure cars and bikes are roadworthy and the behaviour of motorists and cyclists alike is appropriate for the seasonal conditions.
PC Graeme Stewart, who organised the campaign, said:- “Like many areas of Edinburgh, the South has numerous cyclists travelling to and from work and school, or who use their bikes recreationally.
“With the autumn and winter months now upon us and the impact this has on daylight and road conditions, it is extremely important for cyclists to take the appropriate steps to ensure their safety.
“Likewise, we are reminding motorists of their responsibilities including stopping before the Advanced Stop Line boxes, which are for cycle use only, and to give room to cyclists on the road generally.”
Anyone wishing to obtain advice on safe road practises, appropriate clothing or bike security should contact their local officers or visit the Lothian and Borders Police website at www.lbp.police.uk“
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
