South Yorkshire Police launches pushbike patrols to protect cyclists
It follows concerns about drivers not giving cyclists enough room
South Yorkshire Police officers are to start doing patrols on pushbikes to try and tackle the issue of drivers not giving cyclists enough space.
It comes after local groups raised concerns about cars not giving cyclists enough space.
The Safe Pass initiative involves PCSOs on bicycle patrol recording footage. Officers will then review the footage, and do follow-up investigations on any driver who came too close.
Inspector Craig Clifton said: “Following concerns raised by several of our county’s cycling groups and feedback from cyclists in South Yorkshire, we will now roll out a Safe Pass initiative.
“This is as a direct result of the public’s feedback and we hope this demonstrates that we do listen to your concerns and will act to address the issues you raise.
“The scheme will initially be implemented in Sheffield and Doncaster based on some early feedback and if successful, will be rolled out forcewide.
“We are in the early stages of introducing this scheme in our force area, so it will be subject to review. We will also continue to investigate allegations of careless driving locally which are brought to our attention.
“We hope this scheme makes a positive difference to the experience of cyclists on our roads, with the ultimate aim of raising awareness and improving road safety for cyclists on the roads of South Yorkshire."