CYCLISTS have called for a rethink of Scotland's roads system to reduce accidents.
Survey findings were released by Allan McDougall Solicitors, which has acted for more than 1000 cyclists injured in Scotland in recent years, for the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling 2017.
The firm researched the views of cycling enthusiasts on what more could be done to prevent cycling accidents and they highlighted a host of infrastructure improvements.
Cyclists called for more dedicated, car-free or segregated cycle ways, widespread 20mph speed limits in urban areas and a roads revamp.
Respondents also suggested the provision of better training for both vehicle drivers and cyclists, including more cycle awareness training and testing for drivers in DVSA driving tests, as well as improved behaviour and awareness by both parties.
The firm cited the case of Glasgow cyclist Stephen Jackson who was cycling in the city centre when his front wheel caught a pothole around four inches deep.
Mr Jackson was thrown from his bike and sustained an injury to his right leg, as well as damage to his bike and watch.
His case against Glasgow City Council was successful and settled for £6000.
Julie Harris, head of Allan McDougall Solicitors’ Personal Injury team, said: “We very much favour the introduction of a system of ‘presumed liability’, so that in the event of a road accident involving a cyclist, the vehicle driver is automatically at fault.
“Cyclist safety should also be of paramount consideration when infrastructure is designed. As the greenest way to travel, every effort should be made by local and national government to make it the safest way too. As many of us are both cyclists and drivers as well as pedestrians, an integrated approach would be the best way to build awareness and change behaviours.
“By pursuing a legal case, an injured cyclist is not just acting in their own interests, but in the interests of the whole cycling fraternity. Often it takes someone to pursue a claim for remedial action to be taken to the benefit of all.”
Kim Harding, founder and director of the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling, said: “Evidence from around the world has shown that restricting car use in built up areas makes them safer, more pleasant places to live, work and socialise.
"More walking and cycling is good for health, communities and the local economies: win, win, win.”
The survey was based on 45 cyclist responses.
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