Safety campaign starts as injuries to cyclists on increase in city

The numbers of cyclists injured on roads in Leeds is on the rise, according to new figures.

More people than ever are cycling in the city, but while road injuries in general have fallen to their lowest level since records began, injuries to cyclists are on the increase.

Cyclists now account for nine per cent of the overall casualty total – up from seven per cent in 2008.

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Last year 255 cyclists were injured on the roads in Leeds. Forty five of them sustained serious injuries and one person was killed.

The accidents have involved adult cyclists and 85 per cent happen on weekdays during morning and evening commutes. The A660, which passes close to both Leeds University and Leeds Metropolitan University, has the highest casualty rates in the city.

The most common cause of collisions is where a motorist signals to allow another driver to turn right in front of them into a side road. The turning vehicle collides with a cyclist who is travelling up the inside of the traffic.

Today, cyclists are being invited to see the road from a truck driver’s point of view as part of a new road safety campaign on Woodhouse Moor. A truck will be at the event to help cyclists understand why drivers sometimes do not see them approaching.

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It will also see the start of a road safety campaign to encourage cycling and reduce casualties on the A660. A series of placards will shortly be placed along the A660 to remind drivers and cyclists to be aware of each other at all times.

A spokesman for Leeds City Council’s Road Safety Unit said: “By offering cyclists the chance to appreciate the limited view from the cab of a large vehicle we’re hoping to reduce the incidents where cyclists and lorries come into conflict.”

In 2004, 571 cyclists were commuting to the city centre during the morning peak time. This has increased steadily and consistently to 728 in 2007, 1,064 in 2009 and 1,237 in 2011.

Coun Richard Lewis, the council’s executive member for economy and development, said: “It’s really good news that more people are cycling in Leeds. Cycling is a great way to keep fit and reduce congestion on the roads. But, as with every form of transport, it’s important to observe the highway code and be aware of other road users.”