IN THE 10 years from 2004 to 2013, 84 cyclists were killed on Victorian roads.
They were the worst possible outcome of 29,181 crashes involving cyclists which also resulted in 4447 people sustaining serious injuries.
No doubt, some of those injuries would be enduring and life-affecting long after the cyclist has picked him or herself up off the road.
The figures are contained in an independent consultant’s report published by VicRoads in June, summarising the community’s views and understanding of cycling-related road rules.
The report is part of a review undertaken to understand the barriers faced by cyclists or people wishing to take up cycling, and is based on an online survey from 2014 which attracted 10,450 Victorian residents, along with stakeholder feedback, a literature review and an analysis of crash statistics, including those above.
The data also suggest that Tuesdays is the worst day of the week for a crash involving cyclists. With more cyclists on Melbourne roads than ever before, the response demonstrates the peak level of interest the community has in cycling and the need to ensure cyclists are travelling safely on our roads.
The independent report brings together the community’s views to make recommendations to VicRoads about the next stage of the review.
The consultant’s recommendations have not been adopted by VicRoads and are recommendations only at this stage.
VicRoads will use the report to guide further discussions with the community and stakeholders to determine the top issues and priorities.
The report recommends a number of actions, including an education campaign about cycling-related road rules for all road users, changes to some rules and further investigation of other rules to understand how they can be improved.
VicRoads manager Road User Access and Mobility Robyn Seymour said that the report dound the issues of most importance to Victorian cyclists included a lack of respect by others on the road, a varied understanding of road rules, and a need for more bicycle infrastructure.
“The Cycling Related Road Rules review focuses on ways to make it easier for people to take up cycling, for current cyclists to use roads and to protect the safety of everyone on our roads,” Ms Seymour said.
“A number of recommendations need more discussion, particularly with pedestrians and people with a mobility issue.
“The review also highlights rules that aren’t useful or are confusing and need to be changed.”
Ms Seymour said a range of conversations with stakeholders began last month to identify next steps, key issues and priorities with the community having a further opportunity to provide feedback on the suggested outcomes in October.
“We’re taking the community with us on this journey, and will be seeking their feedback again on the outcomes of the independent report and the progress of the review,” she said.
She thanked community members who participated in the review saying their participation clearly shows the interest Victorians have in cycling.
To view the summary report and to find out more about cycling-related road rules, visit the VicRoads website at vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/cyclist-safety/cycling-road-rules-review.
