Cyclists and pedestrians are being urged by Somerset Council to be considerate and give each other space on multi-use paths in the county.
The Council is reminding cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders and other users of shared paths across the county that there is clear guidance based on the updated Highway Code of 2022, for using the routes safely and considering others.
The updated Highway Code recognises different users of shared paths in towns and in rural settings pose varying levels of risk to others.
It states those who have the potential to cause the greatest harm have a greater responsibility to act in a manner that ensures the safety of all. This principle is crucial for maintaining a safe environment.
Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services, Councillor Richard Wilkins said:
Everyone has responsibilities on shared paths, if you’re a cyclist for instance on Taunton’s High Street, you need to be considerate towards pedestrians, give space and adequate warning.
If you’re on foot, you still have a responsibility to be aware that a shared space does allow cycling and ensure as much as possible that you give cyclists room.
We want to give people the option of walking and cycling around our towns and in the countryside, and we’re committed to improving infrastructure across the county.
Shared spaces will be an ever-more vital part of that. To make this work well we all need to care about and consider each other.
Key points from Highway Code
Cyclists
- Always be mindful of pedestrians and horse riders, especially those who are more vulnerable such as children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.
- Pass pedestrians and horse riders with care, allowing plenty of room and reducing speed when necessary.
- Pass horse riders with a minimum of two metres distance and slowly.
- Use a bell or a polite call to alert others of your presence.
- Communicate your intentions clearly to others using signals or polite verbal cues.
- Always wear a helmet when cycling.
Pedestrians
- Be aware that some cyclists and horse riders may not see or hear you.
- Stay alert and give way to faster-moving traffic where possible.
- Keep dogs on a short lead when walking on shared paths.
- Communicate your intentions clearly to others using polite verbal cues.
Horse Riders
- Always keep a safe distance from others.
- Never pass pedestrians or cyclists closely or at high speed.
- Ensure that you communicate clearly with other path users.
- Communicate your intentions clearly to others using signals or polite verbal cues.
For more information on shared path safety visit the New Highway Code. Other useful websites include:
[Stock image by Phil Hearing from Unsplash].
