A message from Cumbria police advising motorists to pass cyclists safely has generated a mixed response from citizens.

Released today, a message from Cumbria police read: “Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on our roads – do you pass safely?

“The risk of a cyclist suffering a serious injury in a collision is high.

“You can make them safer by driving patiently and waiting for a suitable opportunity to pass.

Be a better driver - give cyclists a minimum 1.5m gap when passing.”

The gap would ensure cyclists are uninterrupted while on their journey and would reduce the risk of cyclists being collided with by motor vehicles on the road.

However, the age-old gripe from motorists aimed at cyclists on the road continues, and some people have made such views known in response to the police.

Johnathan Walker wrote: “I have nothing against responsible cyclists but those who insist on hurtling along footpaths with scant regards for pedestrians and those cyclists who again, insist on riding at least three abreast and thereby holding traffic up, should be given a severe talking to.

“Responsibility works both ways as does respect for others.”
John Finch brought up something that might make the rule difficult to enforce: “Great - 1.5m is a good idea, but what are motorists expected to do on the multitude of B and C class roads in Cumbria where there is insufficient road width to achieve the 1.5m?”

There are other safety issues for cyclists, as Graeme Tomlinson pointed out: “How about making it compulsory that cyclists should wear high visibility clothing instead of wearing all black, also lights front and back should be compulsory, cyclists using the B5300 are a real menace, especially as a purpose-built cycle track has been made by the council for them but they insist on using the 60mph B road.”

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