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How to protect the cyclists
Stefan Plüss 02.02.2023
Cycling can be an enjoyable, healthy and environmentally friendly form of transportation. But it can also be dangerous if not done properly, as cyclists are vulnerable to accidents due to their lack of protection in comparison to motorized vehicles. To ensure that cyclists stay safe, there needs to be a comprehensive approach towards creating safer roads, both for them and other road users. In this blog post, we will explore the various ways in which cyclists can protect themselves from potential accidents and injuries on the road. From safety equipment to smart cycling habits, read on to learn more about how you can keep yourself safe while cycling.
The Problem
With the growth of popularity in cycling, there has been an increase in reported accidents and fatalities involving cyclists. In 2021, 39 bicyclists and e-bike rider were killed and 1350 seriously injured in Switzerland- a figure that has risen steadily over the past decade. This trend is concerning not just for cyclists, but for everyone who shares the road.
There are many dangers that cyclists face on the road, from negligent drivers to hazardous road conditions. But there are also steps that we can all take to make cycling safer for everyone. By understanding the risks and taking precautions, we can help protect cyclists and make our roads a safer place for everyone.
What to do?
-Wear a helmet
-Make yourself visible
-Be assertive
-Follow the rules of the road
-Use hand signals
Assuming you are discussing how to protect cyclists from accidents, here are some tips:
Wear a helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear for a cyclist. It can protect your head in a crash and help prevent serious injuries.
Make yourself visible: Cyclists should wear bright clothing so that they can be seen by drivers. reflective gear is also helpful.
Be assertive: Cyclists have a right to use the road, but they need to be assertive to make sure that drivers see them. They should ride in the middle of the lane, not close to the curb where they might get hit by a car door.
Follow the rules of the road: Cyclists should obey all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
Use hand signals: Hand signals let drivers know what a cyclist is planning to do. They help everyone share the road safely.
The solution
The solution to the problem of cyclists being injured or killed on the roads is twofold. First, we need to improve cyclist safety by investing in infrastructure and education. Second, we need to change the culture around cycling, so that drivers see cyclists as equal users of the road deserving of respect.
Investing in safer cycling infrastructure is crucial to protecting cyclists. This could include measures such as dedicated bike lanes, traffic calming measures in urban areas, and better signage and lighting on rural roads. Education is also key, both for cyclists who need to learn how to ride safely, and for drivers who need to be made aware of the rules of the road regarding cyclists.
But ultimately, the only way to truly protect cyclists is to change the culture around cycling. Drivers need to see cyclists as fellow road users, not as nuisances or obstacles. And cyclists need to feel confident that they have a right to be on the road and that they will be respected by other road users. Only then can we create a safe environment for everyone.
Road safety in 2023
Stefan Plüss, 28.01.2023
In 2023, road safety is a global challenge. With the increase in cars in numbers, as well as speed, the number of accidents and deaths has increased. According to Swiss statistics, more than 1.4 million collisions on the roads were reported in 2018. Experts estimate that at least 50 percent may be preventable if applied in the field of road safety.
The Swiss are one of the most passionate about road safety. The Swiss Federal Road Safety Office (SFRO) is a public institution dedicated to promoting safer roads and vehicles, informing the public on traffic rules, and monitoring compliance by drivers, motorcyclists and road users in general with the rules.
All too often, road accidents are caused by drivers who take excessive risks and make bad decisions. This is why some Swiss cities are attempting to combat these dangers with a new road safety campaign. The campaign wants to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, speeding and alcohol consumption.
As of 2023, alcohol, drugs, speed, and violation of the right of way are the main causes of road accidents in Switzerland. In addition to this, we must also fight against distraction.
The risk of being involved in a road accident is very serious in Switzerland and must be prevented by responsible use of traffic. The road safety concerns not only the technical parts of vehicles, but also the driver's behavior. Speed is a major cause of accidents because it causes both physical damage and serious injuries. The quality of medical care is high and liability for personal injury is unlimited, which makes it easier for victims to seek compensation for their injuries.
In Switzerland, road safety is a top public policy priority. Although the country has low road fatality rates, traffic injury mortality is still high compared to many other developed countries - especially when you consider the size of the territory and its population. This is why road safety continues to be a concern for all Swiss people, from federal level down to local communities.