The Power of Alignment
Today was a historic day for the power of alignment in cycling! It seems logical that cycling organisations, who are all not-for-profits, with similar remits and objectives would come together to jointly advocate for change. The truth is, it doesn't happen all that often. Too often there is a battle of who can get the most likes on the socials, or who can find a flaw in an others argument. My experience has been that there are more politics in not-for-profit bodies than there are in corporate business. This only serves to hold back the advancement of Australia becoming a truly cycling friendly country.
Today, across Australia there was a call for action to address the alarming increase in the serious injuries and deaths of cyclists. Over recent decades there has been a decline in the number of motorist fatalities and serious injuries, yet the same can not be said for cyclists. Something needs to change, we need to protect vulnerable road users and be innovative in our approach to achieve it. Cyclists need their 'airbag moment' or the 'DUI moment' - two significant changes in the law that has lead to a significant reduction of catastrophic harm. We've had that law change and it's Minimum Passing Distance Legislation, but without enforcement or education it will be limited in it's impact. The West Midlands Police in the UK have done just that and it's lead to a 20% reduction in deaths and serious injuries to bike riders. Check out how they've done it here > https://vimeo.com/293503049
Todays press release was signed by the Amy Gillett Foundation, Bicycle Queensland, Bicycle NSW, Bike SA, We Ride Australia, Pedal Power ACT, Bicycle Network, Cycling Australia and WestCycle. Nothing sends a stronger message to decision makers than an aligned and consistent message. 4 million people ride a bike regularly in Australia, there are a lot of votes in that. Let's hope the success of this initiative, which was lead by Stephen Hodge at We Ride Australia, serves as testimony to a more collaborative approach in the future.
For a full copy of the press release have a look at any of the co-signed organisations social media or websites or visit: https://westcycle.org.au/national-call-for-education-and-enforcement-of-minimum-passing-distance/