We’re encouraging drivers of large vehicles and people cycling to take extra care on Edinburgh’s roads.
A new campaign will highlight the fact lorries and other large vehicles have blind spots when turning left, which makes it hard for them to see people cycling.
In the coming months we’ll be sharing tips for road users when using junctions, these will be online, on social media and in advertising around the city.
Transport and Environment Vice Convener Councillor Karen Doran said:
During lockdown we’ve seen a surge in the number of people buying new bikes and trying out cycling for the first time and we want to help them, and people who already cycle, to travel safely.
Large vehicles like lorries do have blind spots when turning left and we know, from previous, tragic incidents, that this can put more vulnerable road users at risk. We would encourage drivers to always pay extra attention for cyclists on either sides of their vehicles and for those travelling by bike to take care when approaching junctions.
Tips for road users include:
Drivers
- Always check for cyclists: on both sides of your vehicle; when turning into or coming out of junctions; before turning left.
- Indicate well in advance of making any turns.
- Never overtake cyclists shortly before turning left.
- Always give cyclists plenty of space.
Cyclists
- Stay back from large vehicles and don’t stop too close to them.
- Never wait between a kerb and a large vehicle at a junction.
- Watch out for large vehicles turning left, they may not see you.
- Try to overtake on the right rather than the left.
Find out more about road safety on the Streets Ahead website.