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@deleted
After hearing about yet another horrific accident involving a goods vehicle and seeing so many cyclists undertake long vehicles seemingly unaware of the risks, I have had an idea. I'd appreciate the opinion on whether you think it would improve things.
When you buy a new TV (at least in theory rather than practice) a TV license application form should either be given to you or included in the packaging. This was introduced to raise awareness of the need to have a TV license and make it easier for people to apply.
What if I raised some cash through donations to get a load of small leaflets printed with warnings about long vehicles etc and invite bike shops to give one out with every bike or perhaps accessory they sell? It would be zero cost to them and would at least help new or uninformed experienced cyclists. The bike shop would appear compassionate and the cyclist may absorb what they read if they read it. Its a win for everybody. Perhaps some of the bike shops would donate to the cause too.
I'm not proposing that I produce a handbook covering all aspects of cycle safety, just a warning about the greatest risks facing riders in London. Perhaps there could be a web address on the leaflet/flyer that would take you to a web site with videos and more info. From talking to fellow cyclists I have discovered that many people know that undertaking is a bad idea but don't really know why. A front or rear video of an HGV taking a sharp turn can be a real eye opener even for people who have been on the roads for years. Few understand how much the rear end cuts in and drags.
If successful, I'm sure we could expand to other areas or go national with time.
It wouldn't cost much to produce a large quantity of leaflets/flyers and I'm sure that many cyclists and organisations would be happy to make small contributions to such an initiative. If there was a surplus of leaflets we could arrange days where the leaflets are handed out by volunteers during commuting hours at traffic lights etc.
In my view, even if we save one person from injury or death it would be time and charitable money well spent.
What do you think? Honest opinions please (as if I had to ask!). If its a crap idea I'd rather know now. I'd be happy to get the ball rolling. I'm a busy bloke so would need some assistance now and again though.