Traffic Lights for Cyclists Could be Introduced to London Roads
September 12th, 2012
Traffic lights for cyclists could be introduced on to the roads of London in a bid to further improve safety.
Transport for London (TfL) has promised that it will test the Dutch-style lights which will be placed at eye-level and could be staggered to give cyclists a head-start at junctions.
A total of 9 cyclists have lost their lives on London’s roads so far this year but riders claim that these traffic lights could be a major development in cycling safety.
Traffic lights for cyclists could be introduced on to the roads of London in a bid to further improve safety.
Transport for London (TfL) has promised that it will test the Dutch-style lights which will be placed at eye-level and could be staggered to give cyclists a head-start at junctions.
A total of 9 cyclists have lost their lives on London’s roads so far this year but riders claim that these traffic lights could be a major development in cycling safety.
TfL are currently in talks with the Department for Transport about installing the lights as it would require an update of the law, however managing director for surface transport Leon Daniels has already stated that TfL would press ahead with the trial regardless of their decision:
“We’ve recently held early meetings with the Department for Transport to explore options for new traffic signals which we believe will make cycling safer,” Daniels confirmed.
“If approval of an on-street trial cannot be granted before 2014, TfL will look to carrying out off-street trials instead.”
In the Netherlands the traffic signals are found on segregated cycle paths and at particularly busy junctions. The signals can be staggered to allow bikes to cross the junctions before other road users making it much safer.
It is hoped that the lights will help to reduce accidents as it will make cyclists less likely to run red lights.
Have you recently had a cycling accident that you don’t feel was your fault? Call us today for a free no-obligation assessment on 01625 506 655.
Image source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/green-living-blog/2010/mar/09/manifesto-pledges-cycling