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The Police will conduct a territory-wide campaign on safe cycling from tomorrow (September 17) to September 23 to raise public awareness of cycling safety.
Police officers will distribute publicity leaflets at various locations throughout the territory with a view to promoting safe cycling messages to cyclists and members of the public. The Police will also take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that between January and August this year, there were 1 646 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 1 691 casualties. When compared with 1 658 traffic accidents and 1 712 casualties over the same period in 2013, the figures decreased by 0.7 per cent and one per cent respectively. Six persons died in traffic accidents involving bicycles in the first eight months of this year, an increase of one person when compared with the same period of 2013.
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 at night or times of poor visibility.
The spokesman reminded the public that traffic accidents can be fatal and urged cyclists to obey road traffic regulations and pay attention to road safety.
Ends/Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Issued at HKT 15:29
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