More than one in three Victorian drivers (35 percent) have experienced a near miss with a cyclist  Online PR News – 28-March-2012 –More than one in three Victorian drivers (35 percent) have experienced a near miss with a cyclist, according to the latest research (*) from GIO Insurance. The research also found 6 percent of motorists reported having a collision with a cyclist. While the figures are concerning, the research indicates the public perception of the relationship between motorists and cyclists is probably misrepresented by extreme views on either end. GIO spokesperson Duncan Bone said the findings suggest motorists’ frustration is at least partially based on concerns for the safety of cyclists. "Our research found that more than 80% of Victorian motorists surveyed feel that the road is a dangerous place for cyclists, which likely stems from recognition of cyclists being the most vulnerable road users, and a lack of trust on both sides," he said. “More than one in three Victorian drivers (35 percent) have experienced a near miss with a cyclist”
"In any accident the cyclist always loses, and taking this into consideration is an additional stress for drivers on Melbourne’s busy roads." said Mr Bone. GIO’s research also found 81 percent of Victorian motorists reported having seen cyclists breaking the law or riding dangerously. "While no doubt everyone on the road will have witnessed other motorists breaking the law, it is the vulnerability of cyclists that makes their actions stand out to drivers," said Mr Bone. Conversely, 81 percent of Victorian motorists surveyed also believe that all drivers need to pay more attention to cyclists. "Clearly the majority of drivers sympathise with cyclists, with an additional 66 percent saying they want better facilities for them,” said Mr Bone. "Ultimately, making our roads more pleasant for all road users is a matter of courtesy and maintaining our focus when we are on the road," said Mr Bone. "It’s about the balance of trusting each other to obey the road rules while trying to anticipate, and forgive, the mistakes that we all make," he concluded. (*) Newspoll Market & Social Research conducted an independent internet survey on behalf of GIO Insurance of 3,740 people, 18 years of age and older, across all states and territories in 2011. Collected data has been weighted in line with current ABS population demographics to ensure any extrapolation of results is representative of age sex and area. Visit Our Site
| Contact Information
Share and Connect Files |
| Bookmarks |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
