safety in numbers

The environmental and health benefits of cycling are undeniable and while it might be good for you, taking to pedal power in the capital is a risky business.

Last year 136 cyclists were injured around the Wellington region.

A report by the Greater Wellington Regional Council found cyclists in Wellington are 12 times more likely to be injured than someone travelling in a car. Cyclists in the rest of country are just three and a half times more likely to become a casualty.

Two years ago I wrote For Bicylists, There is Safety in Numbers noting the work of Chris Rissel, who said "It appears that motorists adjust their behaviour in the presence of increasing numbers of people bicycling because they expect or experience more people cycling."

What needs to be done to achieve more and safer cycling across Europe?

More evidence:

It seems paradoxical but the more people ride bicycles on our city streets, the less likely they are to be injured in traffic accidents, say injury experts who will speak at a forthcoming cycling safety seminar in Sydney.