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Police will conduct a territory-wide campaign on safe cycling from tomorrow (November 23) to November 29 to raise public awareness of cycling safety.
Police officers will distribute publicity leaflets at various locations with a view to promoting safe cycling messages to cyclists and the public. The Police will also take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that between January and October this year, there were 2 180 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 2 054 cyclist casualties. Comparing with 1 923 traffic accidents and 1 804 cyclist casualties in the same period in 2011, the figures increased by 13% and 14% respectively. Nine cyclists died in traffic accidents in the first 10 months of this year, a decrease of seven comparing with the same period last year.
A Police spokesman said: "Once on the road, cyclists are obliged to obey all traffic laws which apply to drivers and are subject to the Road Traffic Ordinance. They should also take care of other road users."
Common cycling offences include failing to comply with traffic signs or road markings, riding on the pavement, carrying another person, carrying any animal or article which obstructs the cyclist's view, and riding without illuminating necessary lights.
The spokesman reminded the public that traffic accidents could be fatal and urged cyclists to obey road traffic regulations and to pay attention to road safety.
Police Report No. 179
Ends/Thursday, November 22, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:16
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