Road accidents involving cyclists are becoming more numerous. In recent weeks, many athletes have paid the price and if some have managed with some injuries, others have not had the chance like Joe Guy, Michele, Remain Goyt or Gregory Simonyi again.
According to the latest figures released by road safety, 287 people were killed on the roads of France in April. And according to the organization, cyclists were particularly affected by this mortality sharply rising (+ 13% over the last 12 months, in a slippery year). As a result, as the good weather begins to make its appearance, it is important to remember the main rules to ride safely.
Thus, as explained by the Road Safety website, a bike in good condition and well equipped helps to ensure its safety and that of other road users. Some equipment is therefore mandatory: two brakes (front and rear), a yellow or white front light and a red taillight, a buzzer as well as reflex reflectors (red at the rear, white at the front, orange on the sides and on the pedals). In addition, at night or when visibility is insufficient, the cyclist is obliged to wear a retro reflective vest. Remember also that the wearing of helmets is mandatory for children under 12 years since March 22 last.
However, the respect of these rules is sometimes not enough in particular because the cohabitation with the other road users proves more and more difficult. Faced with this most worrying reality, a petition was launched on the Internet to alert Laura Flosses, the new Minister of Sports. And since its publication, it already counts more than 8,000 signatures. "Unfortunately, they are victims of people believing themselves more + strong + because surrounded by a bodywork while the cyclist only has his helmet for + body + Bike is already a physically difficult sport, no need to add stress for cyclists ", is it in particular written on Change.org. In parallel, a call to the rally was also launched by the movement my bike is a life. It will be held on June 17, Place de la Bastille in Paris.
Another initiative has also been launched to stop the hecatomb of cyclists on the roads. Contacted by France-Soir, wheel builder Michel has made the crazy bet to tour Europe by bike from 21 June. It aims to convince the 577 French MPs to pass a law to force motorists to overtake cyclists by going the other way, to leave a space of sufficient security. In parallel, he also develops safety equipment for cyclists, a kind of distance radar to warn them of the danger.
