The risk of an accident is highest at night. Three out of four cyclists are poorly lit. The causes range from lack of maintenance to users’ lack of interest in safety.
In September 2013, 155 cyclists were killed on French roads and more and more bikes are circulating on the roads. The development of cycle paths and rental bicycles of the “Vélib ‘” type encourage the French to opt for this means of transport.
But cyclists in the city are not always aware of the danger to which they are exposed, or of the danger they represent. THE’Road Prevention Association and the insurer MMA carried out an investigation on the ground, published on October 9, on the occasion of the operation ” Be visible by bike ” (view the photo). The level of bicycle lighting and the visibility of 2,000 cyclists in 11 major cities were measured. The results reveal the recklessness of non-motorized two-wheeler users.
3 out of 4 bikes have a lighting fault
Three out of four urban cyclists are poorly lit when driving at night. This is when they are most vulnerable because the headlights of cars do not always illuminate them. 20% of cyclists killed are killed at night. Rental bikes are considered “exemplary” by the Sécurité Routière association. They are generally well lit and maintained regularly. Users of personal bikes are the poor performers in this study. ¾ of personal two-wheelers have a lighting defect, whether it is a lack of equipment (60%), the result of theft or damage, or the consequence of poor maintenance.
Low use of protective equipment
Side reflective equipment, the record is not brighter. Only 13% of users use it. This time, bicycle renters are particularly exposed: less than 5% use retro-reflective accessories. In Paris, Lille or Rennes, the population is well aware, unlike Strasbourg. Personal bikes are 16% equipped with reflective equipment.
Only one in ten cyclists wear a helmet. Users of a rental bicycle are less careful than others. Here again, in Paris and Lille, 15% of users use a helmet. In Strasbourg, Toulouse and Gap, only one cyclist in twenty wears it.
The number of cyclists killed on the roads is declining steadily but small. There are, however, good ways to reduce the risk of accidents for cyclists : use the mandatory position lights at the front and rear of the bike, wear a helmet and a yellow vest as well as bright clothing for more visibility. Finally, let us not forget that the Highway Code must be applied by cyclists, road users just like everyone else.
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