As South Australia welcomes the world’s top cyclists ahead of the nation’s premier cycling event, SA Police are launching Operation Safe Cycling, focusing on cyclist safety ahead of and during the Santos Tour Down Under, according to SA Police.
The 2017 Santos Tour Down Under will be conducted over seven Stages, commencing with the popular People’s Choice Classic in Adelaide’s East End on 15 January and wrapping up on 22 January.
Traditionally, experienced cyclists and enthusiasts alike take to SA roads in far greater numbers during the annual event.
During Operation Safe Cycling, commencing tomorrow and concluding on Sunday 22 January, SA Police aim to target and deter the dangerous behaviours that place cyclists at risk of death or serious injury.
Officer in Charge of SAPOL’s Traffic Support Branch, Superintendent Anthony Fioravanti, is asking all road users to safely share the road and demonstrate mutual courtesy.
"Because of their size, speed and proximity to motor vehicles, cyclists are among our most vulnerable road users. Of the 492 cyclists involved in crashes on SA roads last year, five were killed and a further 50 were seriously injured.
"Too many cyclists sustain devastating, lifelong injuries in entirely preventable crashes. Motorists and cyclists need only exercise greater care and attention.
"Police will pay special attention to popular cycling locations along the coastline from Outer Harbour to Seacliff, and will be enforcing compliance with the Australian Road Rules.
"We’ll be on the lookout for motorists illegally driving or parking in bicycle lanes, and motorists failing to keep a safe lateral distance when passing cyclists.
"Road safety is a shared responsibility, and cyclists too play a critical role in preventing trauma on South Australian roads.
"Any cyclist riding without a helmet, or riding at night without appropriate lights, can expect an encounter with police.
"We are also targeting cyclists who disobey road control devices, including traffic lights, and those cyclists causing a hazard by riding more than two abreast in large groups," says Supt Fioravanti.
If you’re planning to stop by the Tour Down Under Village in Victoria Square, opening from 3pm on Saturday 14 January, don’t forget to stop by the SA Police Recruiting stand to learn more about an exciting career with SA Police.
