Cycling Safety Gear: Ireland’s Root Causes, Not Just the Fix
- As winter approaches, many households prepare cyclists with high-visibility gear, including jackets, tabards, gloves, and backpack covers, often in neon yellow with reflective silver stripes.
- The author advocates for cyclist visibility, emphasizing the potential dangers faced by cyclists and drivers alike.
- The family operates under a strict rule: a cyclist without a helmet is considered not to have a bike.They prioritize head protection, even if it means taking public...
Family’s Cycling Safety Measures Reflect Wider Concerns
As winter approaches, many households prepare cyclists with high-visibility gear, including jackets, tabards, gloves, and backpack covers, often in neon yellow with reflective silver stripes. This practise stems from a concern for cyclist safety, particularly as visibility decreases.
The author advocates for cyclist visibility, emphasizing the potential dangers faced by cyclists and drivers alike. They describe the alarming experience of nearly colliding with an unlit cyclist and admit to personally ensuring their sons are adequately equipped before allowing them to ride.
The family operates under a strict rule: a cyclist without a helmet is considered not to have a bike.They prioritize head protection, even if it means taking public transportation or walking rather. They believe a stolen bike or a long walk is preferable to a skull fracture.
However,the author expresses discomfort with the Road Safety Authority’s (RSA) “Light up” campaign and slogans like “Be safe,be seen.” They argue that a cyclist’s visibility is not solely within their control and that the message is oddly directed towards drivers who are already operating safely within vehicles.