Cyclists are extremely vulnerable when motorists do not remain vigilant. Collisions between motor vehicles and bicycles often lead to catastrophic brain injuries, even when a cyclist is wearing a helmet, and many of these accidents could be avoided if drivers paid more attention to those on two wheels.
To drive this message home, the Town of Oakville has partnered with the Canadian Automobile Association to promote a Watch for Bikes program. The initiative was launched at a Town Hall event on May 26, and it aims to keep drivers alert through the use of stickers. Residents are being encouraged to pick the stickers up and place them on the side mirrors of their vehicles. They will then be reminded to look out for cyclists every time that they check their mirrors before making a manoeuver. The stickers will be available to Oakville residents for the duration of the initiative from the CAA or at the main public library, community centers and the Town Hall.
Participants in the program are being encouraged to spread the word using social media, and pictures posted online will be entered into a contest. Residents picking up a decal will also receive information about the ways that accidents with cyclists can be prevented. One tip reminds drivers to check their mirrors before opening doors after parking. This is a leading cause of cyclist injuries, and Ontario lawmakers are considering an increase in the penalties for this negligent behavior.
Cyclists often suffer through painful medical treatment and prolonged physical therapy after accidents with motor vehicles. They are also frequently unable to work for considerable periods during their recoveries, and many bicycle accidents permanently affect the riders’ quality of life. A personal injury lawyer may seek redress for the victims of these accidents by bringing lawsuits against the at-fault motorists.
Source: Cambridge Times, “Town partners with CAA to launch bike safety awareness program ‘Watch for Bikes’“, Julia Le, May 27, 2014
