Danger cycle

By Nicole Williams
TWO life-threatening accidents involving cyclists in Greater Dandenong last week marked the start of Victoria Police’s Safe Cycle Month.
Three riders were hospitalised after colliding with cars in two separate incidents.
Greater Dandenong Safe Cycle Co-ordinator Sergeant Brett Shenton said the accidents should remind cyclists to be safe and aware.
“It is just a reminder that you are vulnerable when on a bike and if you are involved in a collision, the chances of injury greatly exceed being in a car,” he said.
A Doveton cyclist was left fighting for his life after a collision between a car and his bike in Dandenong on Wednesday 5 October.
The 27-year-old cyclist and a car collided on Clow Street at 6.40am but the reason for the accident was unknown.
He was taken to The Alfred hospital in a life-threatening condition.
On Sunday 2 October two cyclists were also seriously injured when a van hit them from behind in Keysborough.
The two riders were riding north on Springvale Road at 6.25am, when a white Ford transit van ran into them from behind, causing one rider to fall and dragging the other along the road.
One cyclist was taken to The Alfred with critical head and chest injuries and the other was taken to Monash Hospital with serious abdominal and arm injuries.
The Victoria Police and VicRoads Safe Cycle Month initiative aims to raise awareness of bicycle safety and reduce bike-related road trauma on Victorian roads.
“During Safe Cycle Month there will be an extra focus on cyclist on our roads and in particular the safety of the bikes,” Sgt Shenton said
“But it’s not just about penalising those who mess up – we will be stopping and chatting with those riders doing a good job to reinforce that and letting them know we appreciate the standard they are setting.”
“Cyclists are not exempt from road rules and we’re (motorists) more than happy to share roads with them but they’ve got to be prepared to toe the line as much as drivers do.”
Victorian Bicycle Co-ordinator Sergeant Arty Lavos said it was a joint effort between cyclists and other road users.
“We are encouraging cyclists to prepare for their journeys by ensuring their bike is in good, roadworthy condition, fitted with bright lights, their helmets are well-fitted, they are wearing bright clothing and that they are planning their trips on the safest routes,” Sgt Lavos said.
“Similarly, drivers need to be prepared for cyclists on the road. We encourage all motorists to ensure they are always looking for bikes on the road and making sure they are allowing them enough space to ride safely.”
Anyone with information about the two collisions are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.