Four drivers stopped on A9 at Brora after failing to give police cyclist wide enough berth
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Road policing officers spoke to a number of drivers and cyclists today during the latest Operation Close Pass on the A9 at Victoria Road, Brora.
Four drivers were stopped for passing too closely to an unmarked police cyclist and five cyclists were stopped and spoken to, to highlight their responsibilities on staying safe by wearing appropriate reflective clothing, the wearing of helmets and riding in groups.
Operation Close Pass is aimed at promoting safety for all road users, including motorists and cyclists alike. The operation involves drivers who don't give enough room when passing an unmarked police cyclist being spoken to and given a demonstration on how to overtake safely using a specially designed mat.
Constable Paul Whitehead said: "We are constantly working to make Scotland's roads safer for everyone. The operation provides us with a good opportunity to speak to road users to highlight our respective responsibilities and raise awareness, both by interacting with motorists and other members of the public at the roadside and by generating wider discussion on social media.
"It is imperative that all road users, including cyclists, are aware of their vulnerability, irrespective what mode of transport they are using. When passing a cyclist, you should ensure that you allow sufficent time and distance to do so without compromising their safety. Make sure you can see far enough ahead to know it is safe to complete the overtake.
"There is room for everyone on our roads and we all have a right to be there. We encourage all road users to show consideration and respect for the safety of each other. We were very pleased with the large majority of drivers who gave the cyclist plenty of room.
“All road users should be able to travel safely and we hope that activity like Operation Close Pass will encourage everyone on the roads to consider how their behaviour could change for the better.”
