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Cyclists ‘feel more uncomfortable’ on NSW roads

A growing number of cyclists across NSW believe the state's roads are becoming more dangerous for those riding bikes, according to new research.

The 2017 National Cycling Participation Survey from the Australian Bicycle Council and Austroads revealed that while a similar proportion of people own a bike now as in 2011, fewer people are using them.

Recent Transport for NSW statistics show that three cyclists have already been killed in road accidents this year, and the National Cycling Participation Survey appears to show a rising concern for safety among riders.

The poll found that 40 per cent of people who had used a bike within the last year, aged 15 or over, said they felt 'uncomfortable' or 'very uncomfortable' riding in their local area. This was a notable increase from the 29 per cent who said the same two years ago.

Road conditions on the decline

The proportion of respondents who believed riding conditions had worsened over the previous 12 months climbed from 8 per cent in 2015 to 21 per cent this year.

Meanwhile, individuals were asked which of their activities required them to travel, such as work, shopping and education, and whether or not they used a bicycle as transport.

For those who chose not to ride a bike, more than one-quarter (27 per cent) claimed it was too dangerous. This was the second most-cited reason, with the distance being 'too far' topping the list (63 per cent).

When asked to provide suggestions for making cycling more popular in NSW, many responses hinted at safety improvements:

  • More on-road bicycle lanes (68 per cent);
  • Increased signage highlighting bicycle routes (64 per cent);
  • Better connections between bike paths and schools/public transport (59 and 53 per cent respectively);
  • More signs highlighting bicycle routes (53 per cent); and
  • Better connections between bike paths and parks and swimming pools (53 per cent).

Motor accident compensation claims in NSW

Cyclists who are injured on NSW roads may be entitled to receive damages under the Motor Accidents Compensation Act 1999.

The legislation covers a range of road users, including drivers and their passengers, motorcyclists and pillion passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Recent research also revealed that cyclists are rarely to blame for accidents that involve motor vehicles, which means their claims could have a higher chance of success.

If you'd like to learn more about car accident compensation in NSW, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Gerard Malouf & Partners Compensation, Medical Negligence & Will Dispute Lawyers.

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