Plea to Drivers After Rise in Cycling Accidents in Leicester

Leicester cyclists are pleading to drivers to be more aware after cycling accident figures shot up by more than 20 per cent compared to last year. 

170 cyclists were injured in the city in 2011 compared to 140 in 2010. 

Leicester cyclists are pleading to drivers to be more aware after cycling accident figures shot up by more than 20 per cent compared to last year. 

170 cyclists were injured in the city in 2011 compared to 140 in 2010. 

The Council say that the large increase in the amount of cyclists is the main reason for the rise, however cyclists say that despite this holding some truth, that other road users attitudes need to be addressed. 

Mechanic Danny Sorrentino who works at a bike shop in the city said he’s been knocked off his bike and cut up more times than he can remember. 

“To be honest, I think there have been far more than the amount of accidents given in the figures here,” he said.

“I think that many drivers just do not care,” he added.

“They look at a cyclist, think that they do not pay road tax or insurance, and assume that gives them a right to the road.”

A spokesman from the council said, “While we are pleased with the increase in cycling activity, we’re also continuing to expand our cycle training, particularly for adults and adult commuters, to help reduce the number of accidents.”

“The increase in cycling casualties is simply linked to a big increase in the number of cyclists in the city in the same period,” he also added.