Blind Spots and Bicycles

The state-of-the-art Co-op delivery vehicle is one of 2,500 vehicles and trailers being fitted with new safety features, including reversing cameras, side view blind spot cameras, improved indicators, and new signage. Cycle Alert hopes that increased use of their ground-breaking cycle alert device will enable more HGV drivers to know that a cyclist is near.

Michael Register from Cycle Alert emphasised that both cyclists and drivers need to be more aware of each other.

"No-one wants to be involved in an accident," he said. "Cycle Alert complements the other safety equipment in a vehicle with a quick and non-distracting alert, enabling the driver to know there is cyclist nearby, but keep their eyes on the road and their mirrors. We’re delighted that the Co–op are supporting this campaign.”

Over 50 free Cycle Alert tags were given away to cyclists to encourage participation in the safety scheme. The lightweight tags interact with vehicle devices to act as an extra layer of preventative protection to help keep cyclists out of HGV blind-spots.

The cycle safety event was coordinated by YSJActive, York St John University’s sport and recreation service, to give cyclists the opportunity to understand some of the potential dangers on the road, by providing an experience from the perspective of a large delivery vehicle driver.

Clare Maclauchlan, Development Manager with the Co-op said:

“Road safety is a top priority for the Co-op, and we are always looking at ways to increase awareness of all road users.  York is already popular with cyclists, and according to independent charity Cycling UK is ranked the sixth highest for adults regularly cycling at least three times a week, so we hope our advice will help to keep cyclists safe.”

The event was supported by North Yorkshire Police, who carried out property marking on bikes owned by students and staff, and The British Heart Foundation, who provided information on healthy lifestyles and CPR.