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The Police will conduct a territory-wide campaign on safe cycling from tomorrow (April 9) to April 15 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 the public. The Police will also take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that between January and February this year, there were 366 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 376 casualties. When compared with 398 traffic accidents and 410 casualties in the same period in 2013, both figures decreased by 8 per cent. There were no fatal traffic accidents involving bicycles in the first two months this year, a decrease 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.
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, April 8, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:12
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