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Police will conduct a one-week territory-wide operation on safe cycling from today (November 11) to raise public awareness of cycling safety.
To promote safe cycling messages to cyclists and the public, Police officers distributed publicity leaflets at various locations throughout the territory prior to the operation. During the operation, Police will take stringent actions against cycling offences.
Police figures show that in January to September 2015, there were 1 907 traffic accidents involving bicycles, causing 1 976 casualties. When compared with 1 836 traffic accidents and 1 889 casualties in the same period of 2014, the figures increased by about four per cent and five per cent respectively. Eleven persons died in the accidents, an increase of six persons when compared with the corresponding period in 2014.
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 at night or times of poor visibility.
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.
Ends/Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Issued at HKT 18:23
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