Road safety advice issued for darker evenings

Now that the clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in, we would like to remind cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians about the importance of ensuring that they are seen by other road users.

We’re taking part in a national campaign that starts today and runs until the 11 November and focuses on vulnerable road users. It aims to make the roads safer for cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians. 

We are encouraging people to think about how visible they are to other road users. Pedestrians are reminded to always use pedestrian crossings where possible, especially those taking journeys to and from school. Cyclists should ensure their bike is in good working order and carries front and rear lights. Anyone who is on or near a highway should have some form of high visibility clothing or reflective material. It’s also important to remember that when on or near the road you should always stay alert and where possible make eye contact with drivers.

If you spot irresponsible or dangerous driving, try to make a note of the number plate, and report it to us at the earliest opportunity. If you have dashcam footage of the offence, then you can upload that to us on the North Yorkshire Police website under Operation Snap.

The campaign is also aimed at highlighting to drivers that everyone has the right to use the roads. Alertness behind the wheel is about being aware of what is happening and identifying a cyclist, horse rider or pedestrian at the earliest opportunity.

As part of the activity our dedicated Road Safety Team will be engaging will all road users to highlight risks and offer advice. We will be on the lookout for people who are not visible after dark and will look to engage with them. The York and North Yorkshire Road Safety Partnership will be also offering free bike lights at various locations across the county.

Inspector Clive Turner from North Yorkshire Police’s Roads Policing Group said: “With the clocks going back on Sunday we have reached the time of the year where it gets dark quickly and it’s important that everyone is visible.

“This campaign is aimed at anyone who uses the road, we all carry a responsibility to help reduce serious and fatal collisions, our actions on the road impact not just us but others."