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Police will run a territory-wide campaign to promote safe cycling in summer from tomorrow (July 17) to July 30.
During the first week of the campaign from July 17 to 23, Police officers will distribute publicity leaflets in areas frequented by cyclists, particularly cycling tracks, to educate cyclists on the proper use of cycling tracks. Cyclists will be reminded of their responsibilities on the road and the importance of complying with traffic regulations. Offenders will be given verbal warnings and motorists will also be reminded to pay attention to cyclists on the road.
Enforcement action against offenders will be taken from July 24 to 30.
A Police spokesman said: "Once on the road, cyclists are obliged to obey all traffic laws which apply to drivers and are subject to the Road Traffic Ordinance. They should also take care of other road users."
Common cycling offences include carrying another person, carrying any animal or article which obstructs the cyclist's view, riding a bicycle on the pavement and riding without illuminating necessary lights.
Police figures show that there were 878 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 809 cyclist casualties during the first six months in 2010. The figures represent an increase of 6.2 per cent and 11.7 per cent respectively when compared with the same period in 2009. Among these casualties, seven died, an increase of two deaths when compared with the same period last year.
Police Report No. 3
Ends/Friday, July 16, 2010
Issued at HKT 16:13
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