Cyclists promote bike safety
Home » Blog » Lynda Brendish » Cyclists promote bike safetyWorrying road safety statistics for cyclists prompted Auckland triathlete Rowan Larsen to start the not-for-profit Responsible Cyclists Association
Image by dbking via Flickr
Between 2004 and 2008, nearly 2,000 cyclists required hospitalisation due to injuries received from crashes involving motor vehicles on public roads in New Zealand, according to the Ministry of Transport's Cyclist crash facts report.
As more and more people take to bikes, it's these sort of worrying statistics that prompted Auckland triathlete Rowan Larsen to create the not-for-profit Responsible Cyclists Association.
The RCA is intended to promote considerate riding habits and peaceful road-sharing behaviour.
Members will receive a reflective sticker for their car rear window as well as their helmet.
Future plans include a virtual café environment for cyclists to share profiles and regular ride information; AA-type services such as personal and bike insurance cover.
Eventually Larsen hopes to initiate smart chip tags which will hold key personal medical information as well as provide access to downloadable information on cycling routes, distances, repair shops and bike-friendly cafes in local areas.
RCA Charter
We obey all road rules in the same way that they apply to motorists.
We give respect first in order to gain respect second.
We are positive, not punitive towards other cyclists and road users.
We thank considerate road users with a cheerful wave as often as possible.
We keep as far left as is safely practical at ALL times.
We do not ride two abreast if it causes obstruction, delays or danger to other road users.
We actively assist other traffic to pass us safely on busy or narrow roads.
We clearly signal our intended direction.
We do not abuse inconsiderate road users.
We take responsibility for our actions in sharing the road fairly.
Sun October 31, 2010 @ 03:32 PM
