Cyclists Highlight Dangerous Driving at Birmingham Vigil
A somber line of campaigners held up placards and stood in silence at a vigil close to the spot on one of Birmingham’s busiest roads where a young father was killed. The vigil was organized by Better Streets for Birmingham, a group that campaigns for safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians.
Introduction
The vigil took place on Belgrave Middleway, where Hussien Nur Teklise was killed after being hit by a motorist on May 16. Two other cyclists have also died on city roads since then: one on Chester Road on May 31 and one on the A45 Coventry Road on June 8.
Vigil
At the vigil, campaigners witnessed drivers blatantly jumping red lights, switching lanes at the last minute, and speeding. They said that these actions contribute to the horrific risks facing cyclists and pedestrians.
Better Streets for Birmingham
Mat MacDonald, of Better Streets for Birmingham, said: “In the hour we were there, we witnessed some incredibly dangerous driving. This type of behavior can kill.”
He called for urgent action to be taken to make Birmingham’s roads safer for cyclists and pedestrians. He said that this includes more enforcement of traffic laws and a more rapid delivery of road safety schemes.
City Council
Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for transport, Cllr Liz Clements, attended the vigil and vowed to do more to make the city’s roads safer. She said: “We need massive cultural change when it comes to driving behavior.”
She also said that the council is rewriting its road safety strategy and that its Birmingham Transport Plan is all about making streets for people and overturning the dominance of the car.
The vigil was a powerful reminder of the need for action to make Birmingham’s roads safer for cyclists and pedestrians. Better Streets for Birmingham is calling on everyone to work together to tackle dangerous driving and to make the city a safer place for everyone.
Comment
Cycling is a great way to get around, but it can also be dangerous. Cyclists are at risk of being injured or killed in accidents with cars, and they are often not given the same consideration by drivers as other vehicles.
Dangers Faced by Cyclists
There are many dangers faced by cyclists on the roads. Some of the most common dangers include:
- Drivers who do not pay attention to cyclists. This is the most common danger faced by cyclists. Drivers often fail to see cyclists, or they do not give them enough space when passing.
- Drivers who open their doors without looking. This can cause cyclists to crash into the door, or it can knock them off their bikes.
- Drivers who tailgate cyclists. This makes it difficult for cyclists to brake safely, and it can also cause them to be hit from behind.
- Drivers who drive recklessly. This includes speeding, running red lights, and making illegal turns.
How Drivers Can Take More Care for Cyclists
There are many things that drivers can do to take more care for cyclists. Some of the most important things include:
- Pay attention to cyclists. This means being aware of their presence on the road and giving them the right of way.
- Give cyclists plenty of space when passing. This means leaving at least three feet of space between your car and the cyclist.
- Do not open your door without looking. This is a simple way to avoid hitting a cyclist.
- Do not tailgate cyclists. This gives them enough room to brake safely.
- Drive safely. This includes obeying the speed limit, not running red lights, and making legal turns.
Claim Time
If you are injured in a cyclist accident, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. The amount of compensation you can receive will depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.
It is important to speak to an experienced personal injury solicitor as soon as possible after a cyclist accident. A solicitor can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in a claim for compensation.
Conclusion
Cycling is a great way to get around, but it can also be dangerous. Drivers can help to make the roads safer for cyclists by paying attention to them, giving them plenty of space, and driving safely. If you are injured in a cyclist accident, you may be able to make a claim for compensation – no win no fee.
