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The Police will conduct a territory-wide campaign on safe cycling from tomorrow (September 12) to September 18 to raise public awareness of cycling safety.
Police officers will distribute publicity leaflets at various locations throughout the territory with a view to promoting safe cycling messages to cyclists and members of the public. The Police will also take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that between January and July this year, there were 1 410 traffic accidents involving bicycles, resulting in 1 458 cyclist casualties. When compared with 1 417 traffic accidents and 1 466 cyclist casualties in the same period in 2012, both figures decreased by 0.5 per cent. Five cyclists died in traffic accidents in the first seven months of this year, an increase of one person when compared with the same period of 2012.
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 can be fatal and urged cyclists to obey road traffic regulations and pay attention to road safety.
Police Report No. 288
Ends/Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:11
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