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The following is issued on behalf of the Road Safety Council:
The Road Safety Council (RSC), in partnership with Sha Tin District Council, Hong Kong Road Safety Patrol and Hong Kong Police Force, held a "Wise Ride" publicity event at the Amphitheatre of Sha Tin Central Park today (July 15) to enhance public awareness of cycling safety.
Cycling safety is an issue of concern for the RSC. Police figures show that there were 1,147 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 1,071 cyclist casualties during the first six months in 2012. The figures represent an increase of 9 per cent and 8 per cent respectively compared with the same period in 2011. Five cyclists were killed in cycling accidents.
This was one of the RSC's publicity events on safe cycling throughout the territory. It aimed to enhance cyclists' awareness of road safety and emphasised the importance of using personal protective equipment when cycling. Cyclists were also reminded that they are subject to the Road Traffic Ordinance and are obliged to obey all traffic laws which apply to drivers.
Guests distributed leaflets and souvenirs to spread the cycling safety message.
Ends/Sunday, July 15, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:05
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