Video: When separate infrastructure isn't enough - cyclist hit by SUV on footbridge

OldRidgeback wrote:

the driver should have been taking adequate precautions by driving slowly. That clearly was not the case as can be seen in the video.

These structures are not generally designed to cope with large SUVs that weigh up to 2 tonnes such as the one involved in this incident. Cleaning machines or snow sweepers are generally lighter as well.

Point 1a.... Relevant authorities had signs "warning people on foot and bikes that its VEHICLES MAY BE PRESENT." I'd suggest that with the displayed warning signs the cyclist should have been able to come to a full stop if they had been cycling at a safe speed for the possible hazards present. The cyclist has just as much responsibility as the driver to act safely.

1b.... Also Its not clear to me that the vehicle is actually moving when the cyclist hits it.

1c.... Looking at the picture used to illustrate the article it shows a gap about 1/3rd of the path wide i.e. enough for a cyclist going at a safe speed to have got into.

2.... Are you a structural engineer? There are plenty of structures that allow heavy vehicles on a "for access" basis. As for snow ploughs for the road Google tells me they are around 20 tonnes. Even those diddy little ones that you drive on pavements 3.2 tonnes. Compared to a fully stripped out Govt. vehicle i.e "no options" electric windows, no electric leather seats etc.

Are you looking at this objectively or is there an agenda?

Bishop wrote:

1c.... Looking at the picture used to illustrate the article it shows a gap about 1/3rd of the path wide i.e. enough for a cyclist going at a safe speed to have got into.

Wide-angle lenses distort horizontal distances. The cyclist has a lot less room than you think. I would estimate that the gap between parapet and SUV mirror to be about 24". To put this into perspective road-bike handlebars are about 18" so the rider has about 6" to spare. The distance between parapet and the first longitudinal shadow is about handle-bar width.

As to comments about the cyclists reaction time then I would like to point out that you react quicker to things you expect. Who would expect an SUV driving towards you on a cycle path?

You have to question the choice of inspection vehicle. Surely this could have been done in a more appropriate vehicle. Cycle, motorbike, trike, golf-buggy, gator or shanks pony would all have been more suitable.