Warning to cyclists & motorcyclists to be ‘autumn aware’

SOUTH Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is encouraging cyclists and motorcyclists to be ‘autumn aware’ by wearing the right Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).

The autumn weather can lead to dangerous riding conditions with low sun, wet leaves, poor visibility and deep surface water on the road. The dark mornings and evenings make commuting particularly hazardous.

Cyclists and motorcyclists should always wear the right protective gear when riding including wearing high visibility clothing. A study in New Zealand showed that motorcyclists who wore a fluorescent jacket and a white helmet were 37 per cent less likely to be killed in a road accident.

Mark Ainsworth-Smith, Pre-hospital care practitioner for SCAS, explains: “We want everyone to be safe on the roads this autumn. Wearing the correct clothing can greatly reduce your chance of a collision and also prevent serious injuries. Wearing high visibility clothing is essential to make other road users aware of your presence in bad weather, poor light and at night time. Riders should adjust their speed to changing road conditions and should be particularly careful in the event of snow or ice. “

Mike concluded: “My bike will be staying warm in the garage if we get any icy conditions this year!”