Hundreds of cyclists are expected to saddle up this weekend with the return of the Island’s popular Randonnee cycling event.
Cancelled in both 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, this Sunday’s (1st May) Randonnee will be the first since the introduction of the revised Highway Code which gives greater protection to vulnerable road users such as cyclists.
Hierarchy of responsibility
Drivers now have more responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse — while cyclists have more responsibility to be aware of pedestrians.
The new rules mean cars must leave at least 1.5 metres (five feet) room when passing bicycles — and revised guidance also says “it can be safer” for cyclists to ride two abreast, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders.
Where in the lane to ride
Cyclists are also now instructed to ride in the centre of the lane in slower moving traffic, “on quiet roads or streets, moving over to the left if a faster vehicle comes up behind them, but only if they can do so safely” and “at the approach to junctions or where the road narrows, where it would be unsafe for drivers to overtake them”.
Giving way
Other key amendments include drivers turning into a road being required to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross.
They are also now told not to cut across cyclists or horse riders going straight ahead when turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane, to avoid “left hook” collisions — and allow cyclists priority at roundabouts.
Another recommendation is for car users to reduce the risk of opening a door into the path of a cyclist by using the hand on the opposite side to the door, as that will often lead to them looking over their shoulder.
Jordan: Our Island a mecca for cyclists
Cllr Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said,
“Our Island has rapidly become a mecca for cyclists.
“It has some fantastic, challenging and exciting cycling routes, which is partly why the Island will be hosting the final leg of the Tour of Britain cycle race in September. It is also why the Randonnee always attracts a huge number of enthusiasts.
“During the event, please make sure that if you encounter Randonnee participants around the Island that you do follow the revised Highway Code for the safety of everyone.
“Slow down, stop and wait for a safe gap in the flow of cyclists if necessary. This includes when cyclists are approaching, passing, or moving off from a junction, moving past or waiting alongside stationary or slow-moving traffic, or travelling around a roundabout.
“I hope that the event is an enormous success once again and that everyone taking part has a great day and that we all can stay safe on our roads and enjoy a great bank holiday weekend.”
More information about the changes to the Highway Code that came in in January 2022 is available on the government Website.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: © Visit Isle of Wight
