A reminder has been issued to cyclists to follow social distancing guidelines as more and more people take to two wheels for exercise.
A combination of lighter nights and improved weather has seen the number of cyclists increase significantly over the last fortnight. That has also been boosted by the number of vehicles on the roads falling to 1955 levels, according to data released last week.
Some cyclists have come under fire for leaving their local area, with a sign being put up in Huby this week warning cyclists not to risk spreading the virus. North Yorkshire Police said cycling is still acceptable even during the coronavirus lockdown, but said precautions still need to be taken.
A sign put up in Huby warning cyclists to stay away. Picture by Thomas Barrett
Major Collision Investigation Sergeant Karen Aldridge said: “As long as people follow the government’s rules about how they exercise and observe social distancing while they do it, we want to give people the knowledge they need to ride safely.
“North Yorkshire is a beautiful county with a strong cycling scene and 6,000 miles of roads. That’s plenty of road for everyone if all road users stick to the law, take sensible precautions and look out for one another.”
The force’s advice includes:
- planning routes and telling someone where you’re going and your expected return time, especially if you are cycling in a remote location
- using dedicated cycle paths, especially when riding with children, as HGVs are still on the roads delivering essential supplies
- checking the bike is roadworthy before setting off, especially if it hasn’t been used for a while
- wearing reflective clothing and using lights and reflective discs, as well as riding towards the centre of the lane where you are most visible to other road users
- ensuring any face protection does not restrict your head movement
- using hand signals when turning
- making eye contact with drivers and pedestrians to ensure they have seen you
- helping motorists to pass at a safe distance by filtering down to single file.
Sgt Aldridge said officers are working hard to enforce speed limits, after reports that some drivers are using excessive speeds on quieter roads. She reminded drivers to “expect the unexpected around each corner” and to pass cyclists when safe to do so, at a minimum distance of 1.5m.
She added: “The government measures make it clear that cyclists need to practise social distancing and should only ride alone or with people from the same household. Please remember that, as our officers are out on patrol ensuring people follow these rules.”