‘I want to cycle without the fear of being hurt’ – BBC News
BBC News 2 days ago
A new social media campaign seeks to highlight to motorists that each cyclist is a person rather than a piece of street furniture.
It is raising awareness of the risks to those on bikes as more cars return to the roads after lockdown.
Joanne Ness, from Birmingham, launched the “More than a Cyclist” message after a fatal crash involving a friend.
An experienced cyclist herself, Ms Ness said his loss left her too frightened to enjoy the sport for months.
Last year, 140 cyclists died on Britain’s roads.
The latest government figures show there has been a 4% decrease in the number of cyclists killed in the past year, which the Department for Transport associates with a reduction of traffic during the pandemic.
“Cycling has always been a bit dangerous,” Ms Ness said. “In lockdown one, things were quiet, but ever since, the roads have got really bad.