road safety – canberra.bike

Pedestrians: not even an afterthought

In a society that gives priority to keeping the traffic moving at speed (time is money), little consideration is often given to the vulnerability of pedestrians and cyclists. Road safety is still mostly about the safety of vehicle occupants. Yet it is the vulnerable road users – and not the vehicle occupants – that mostly get hurt in a collision.

How to run into a cyclist under optimal driving conditions

Riding on the road may not be the smartest thing we do. Even under optimal conditions, drivers manage to run into “living things”. We all know that at speed this can/will be fatal.

Slowing down: we know it but do not fix it?

Safer walking and cycling is most easily achieved by reducing traffic speed. We have known this for over a decade but do too little to curb road speeds. Here is a report from 2008 stating the case.

Cycling safety: measure what is important

Sand on the road. Maintenance required. Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery on Pexels.com

The old adage that we should measure what is important is the case for motor traffic but not cycling. Cycling is not on the radar of ACT Government investment.

Pyrrhic victories in road safety

It is well-known that motor vehicles tend to squeeze vulnerable road users out of their space. With three tonnes of speeding motor vehicle approaching and the driver oblivious to your presence, this should not be a surprise. The most vulnerable of all are children.

Excessive speed takes its toll in Narrabundah

Concern is growing that it is just a matter of time before a child is killed in Narrabundah as a result of excessive speed on the roads.

ACT Road Safety Grants Fund

The ACT Government has a fund for road safety programs, education and awareness campaigns, audits, research and feasibility studies. This is a clever way to improve road safety in the ACT.

National Cycling Participation Survey

The National Cycling Participation Survey is unusual for Australia. It is a standardised survey that has been repeated every two years since 2011. Repeating the survey regularly is the only way to find and analyse trends. The survey provides data on cycling participation across Australia and estimates of participation in the ACT, too.

Ride to school quiz

question mark Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Test your knowledge of cycling in the ACT. Part of the “It’s Your Move – Safe Cycle” ACT Government initiative, supported by Physical Activity Foundation, Resources for years 7-10.

Road rules for cyclists

Not the most exciting topic perhaps but it is easier to shout at motorists when you know you are in the right. 🙂 A marked shoulder is easily mistaken for the bike lane which creates confusion. More about Australian Road Rule 153.