With the cost of living rising and fuel prices at the pump reaching record highs, the humble bicycle once again has a major role in helping us save money as individuals – along with having a big impact on the wellbeing of our communities. But it takes political will from the top to make that happen…
Cycling benefits everyone, not just the people who can cycle. This is something often overlooked by non-cyclists. In cities such as Amsterdam, where a greater proportion of the population cycle, there is actually less traffic congestion. When a car idling in a traffic jam is also costing the driver more money than ever, this is an important consideration.
Cycling has myriad benefits: from improving health and reducing pollution, to making space for more green trees, parks and communal areas in cities, which allows communities to socialise and flourish. Cities where more people cycle are better places to live.
On your bike
We know we are preaching to the converted here, but it helps to have the facts at your fingertips when answering the questions about why you cycle. Politically, cycling has hit the headlines several times in the last few years. Boris Johnson’s “new golden age of cycling” promised to be the solution to transport during the pandemic, but it seems the revival of cycling, in government at least, is still to reach its full potential.
Head of campaigns at cycling charity, Cycling UK, Duncan Dollimore said: “The cost of living crisis has brought the lack of transport alternatives apart from the car into sharp relief, with people paying the penalty at the pump. The Chancellor’s spring statement shows lessons have not been learned from the past, or our current situation, and demonstrates little vision on how to solve our transport problems.
“Now’s the time to plan for the future, to invest in our towns and cities in ways which will unlock our car dependency. Cars have their place, but when 68% of journeys under five miles are currently driven – distances easily cycled or in some cases walked – it’s clear there has been a failure to provide suitable transport alternatives. A progressive spring statement would have invested in cycling, walking and public transport for the future and not been a sticking plaster for the problems we face today.”
What can we do?
It is well understood that there are a lot of interested but concerned people who would like to cycle but are put off by fears of riding on the roads, lack of cycling infrastructure or by not having bike facilities at their destination. To make cycling viable for everyone who wants to ride, this must change.
With local elections on 5 May, now is a good time to make your future councillors listen and vote for those who make cycling a priority. There is more information on how to make your voice heard at Cycling UK.
Supporting cycling is about supporting the communities we live in. More people cycling benefits the health and wellbeing of everyone. Make sure your local council and MP get the message!
For more information about our services or to start your claim, call 0808 100 9995 and speak to one of our specialist solicitors. We’re here to help. You can email us or schedule a callback.
