August is National Road Victim Month, which is dedicated to raising awareness of accidents on British roads, those who have been affected and how they can be prevented. The awareness month was founded by RoadPeace in 1998.
In 2023, vulnerable road users accounted for 50,682 deaths and injuries. As part of our commitment to supporting those injured in road traffic accidents, we’re outlining how vulnerable road users can be safer on the roads.
How can pedestrians be safer on the roads?
Pedestrians often use footpaths that are at the side of busy roads, making them vulnerable to road traffic accidents. To ensure they are safe, walkers, runners and hikers should try to avoid any distractions, such as their phones, music or conversation, when near busy roads.
Pedestrians should also always use designated crossings in the road, and avoid crossing between parked cars or on blind corners. Making yourself as visible as possible is key.
If there isn’t a footpath and the pedestrian has to walk on the road, they should always opt for the right side of the road, so they can see oncoming traffic and react accordingly. They should also be as far to the side of the road as possible.
How can cyclists be safer on the roads?
Cyclists are very vulnerable on the roads as they share lanes with vehicles significantly heavier than them – this means visibility and protection are vital.
Cyclists should opt for hi-vis clothing that features reflective strips to ensure other road users are aware of them. They should also ensure they have front and rear lights and reflective strips on their bike frame and wheels, making them visible throughout the day.
It’s also important that cyclists wear helmets to ensure they are adequately protected if they have a road accident. Helmets significantly reduce the impact of falling off a bicycle and are said to reduce serious head injuries by 60%.
When on the roads, cyclists should also use correct and visible signals to notify other road users of their intended actions. It’s also important that they take a dominant position in the road when appropriate. This could be when the road is narrow or there is a pinch point.
But where possible, cyclists should use dedicated bike lanes, public bridleways and byways.
How can motorcyclists be safer on the roads?
Motorcyclists also need to put visibility and protection first. It’s vital that they wear helmets and protective clothing at all times when riding a motorbike – they could be the difference between life and death.
As they will be travelling at high speeds, it’s imperative that motorcyclists regularly check their brakes, oil levels and lights to ensure their vehicle is safe for the road.
Motorcyclists should also ride conservatively and keep a safe distance from other road users, including other motorcycles and vulnerable road users.
Overall, it’s important that all road users have read and fully understand The Highway Code, so they know the rules of the road and learn how best to behave when driving, cycling or walking. The Highway Code is updated fairly regularly, so it’s important that road users are aware of upcoming changes.
But if the worst is to happen, Taylor Emmet’s Personal Injury team is on hand to help. We’re experienced in helping those who have suffered any injury type in road traffic accidents, from minor to life-changing.
We’re also proud to pioneer BikeLaw UK, our specialist team that provides free legal advice to cyclists across Sheffield, Derbyshire and the Peak District. We’ll empower cyclists to make the right legal decisions for them.
If you’ve been injured in an RTA, get in touch to find out how our team can support you.