Please consider letting us make things safe enough that people we love stop getting killed[Republished with the kind permission of David Slack, from More than a Feilding newsletter, 7 April 2022]Another half second and she might have been dead, our daughter. How would the news story have described it? Probably: a young woman cyclist died today in the CBD in a collision with a tow truck.Instead there was just a broken bike, and half a second made all the difference.There was a tow truck, belting through the streets the way they do at haulaway rush hour.There was a bike coming up the bike lane - that would be our daughter.There was a gap in the traffic - if you don't count a young woman on a bike - and so the tow truck made his right turn swoop across the lanes of Symonds St. Maybe he spotted her before they hit, maybe he didn't. Either way there was a collision.It was a...
News: April 2022
Apr
Patrick Morgan, Project Manager, Cycling Action NetworkWhat a year! While Covid has forced us all to adapt, I'm proud of what CAN has achieved in the past year. Thanks to everyone at CAN for your time, energy and passion. I'm impressed with your commitment to serve your community by fighting for better biking. You inspire me. Together, we're stronger and more effective. As CAN's project manager, it's my job to - support your advocacy, - make the case for cycling in social and mainstream media- build relationships and influence with decision makers in Government, councils, and the community- help you make submissions on climate, health, and transport policies.- fundraise I'm employed by CAN for 30 hours / week. I'm based in Wellington. . Highlights Meeting cycling advocates, and presenting a paper, at the national cycling and walking conference in Dunedin, March 2021...
Apr
Cyclists need to make sure they are well lit through the winter months, says the Cycling Action Network. "The onset of shorter days means it's time for cyclists to check their lights and batteries," says CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan. "Lights, reflectors and high-visibility riding gear make you easier to see." "Cycling offers the ultimate trip: it's a fast and convenient way to get around, while improving your health at the same time." "Our message to people is to get out there and enjoy the ride, and to remember to use lights whenever visibility is poor." Mr Morgan also has advice for drivers. "At this time of year look out for the lights of people on bikes. Give them plenty of room when overtaking, as required by the road code. A clearance of a metre and a half is recommended." The NZ Road Code says that people on bikes must - use lights between sunset and sunrise. - have one or...