Two thirds of drivers think aggressive cyclists are a threat to their safety

Almost two in three drivers (65 per cent) believe aggressive cyclists are a threat to their safety, a survey suggests.

This is despite the fact Department for Transport figures show just four car occupants were killed in crashes involving a bicycle and a car from 2012 to 2021, compared with 494 fatalities of cyclists in such incidents in that period.

The poll of 2,010 motorists, commissioned by road-safety charity IAM RoadSmart, also indicated that 60 per cent of drivers believe that aggressive cyclists are a bigger problem than they were three years ago.

And 61 per cent would not support a law that worked on the assumption drivers are always responsible for collisions with cyclists in urban areas.

A poll of 2,010 motorists found that almost two thirds (65%) believe aggressive cyclists are a threat to their safety

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart’s director of policy and research, said: ‘The Government has introduced a range of laws in recent years in an effort to fix the daily conflicts we see between motorists and cyclists. 

‘But if our research is anything to go by, this has largely been to no avail, with the majority of respondents still reporting aggression among road users.’

Mr Greig added: ‘There is no quick-fix to this issue, but our research sheds light on the urgent need for the Government to maintain its education campaigns on the new Highway Code, and continue to invest in safe road markings for more vulnerable road users to minimise the chance of conflict wherever possible.

‘In the meantime, all road users, whether on two or four wheels, should exercise calmness and restraint to help us all use Britain’s roads safely.’

New rules came into force in June 2022 meaning judges in Britain can hand down life sentences to dangerous drivers who kill and careless drivers who kill while under the influence of drink or drugs.

Two months later, then-transport secretary Grant Shapps pledged to create a ‘death by dangerous cycling’ law that would treat killer cyclists the same as motorists.

Nearly four out of five (78 per cent) respondents to the IAM RoadSmart survey said people driving motor vehicles aggressively are putting their safety at risk.

Some 108 people were killed in 2021 in crashes where aggressive driving was a contributory factor, equivalent to 8% of all road deaths.

DfT figures show just four car occupants were killed in crashes involving a bicycle and a car from 2012 to 2021, compared with 494 fatalities of cyclists in such incidents in that period

Duncan Dollimore, heading of campaigns at charity Cycling, said: ‘There’s no excuse for aggressive behaviour – people can behave badly no matter what mode of transport they’re using.

‘The consequences are however disproportionate, with statistics showing poor driving far more likely to lead to a fatality or serious injury.

‘The Highway Code changed last year to emphasise the additional responsibility those in charge of larger vehicles, because they were more likely to cause harm if there is a collision.

‘Cycling UK has repeatedly called for a long-term well-funded public awareness campaign by the Government to ensure that the changes are better communicated and understood, which in turn will make our roads safer for everyone.’

The amendments to the Highway Code included the creation of a hierarchy of road users based on vulnerability.

It means someone driving has more responsibility to watch out for people cycling, walking or riding a horse.

Another change involved motorists being told they should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at up to 30mph, and leave more space at higher speeds.

This post first appeared on Dailymail.co.uk