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Police will conduct a territory-wide campaign on safe cycling from tomorrow (May 23) to May 29 to raise public awareness of cycling safety.
Police officers will distribute publicity leaflets at various locations with a view to promoting safe cycling messages to cyclists and the public. The Police will also take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that between January and April this year, there were 706 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 656 cyclist casualties. Comparing with 649 traffic accidents and 612 cyclist casualties in the same period in 2011, both figures increased by nine per cent and seven per cent respectively. Three cyclists died in traffic accidents in the first four months of this year, and four in the same period last year.
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 failing to comply with traffic signs or road markings, riding on the pavement, carrying another person, carrying any animal or article which obstructs the cyclist's view, and riding without illuminating necessary lights.
The spokesman reminded the public that traffic accidents could be fatal and urged cyclists to obey road traffic regulations and to pay attention to road safety.
Police Report No. 115
Ends/Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:27
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