Cyclist Fatality

Tragically Capt Jonathan Allen, a 24 year old soldier who has served in Afghanistan, was killed on his bicycle just after 7.00pm on 24th March. He was cycling near his base in Wiltshire when it is believed he swerved to avoid a pothole and was struck by a lorry. He suffered multiple injuries and died at the scene. Wiltshire council has since filled in the pothole and the police are investigating.

Potholes and poor road surfaces are a danger to all, especially the vulnerable cyclist. A driver should always leave plenty of space when overtaking cyclists. It is not only potholes but also drains, manholes and unevenly repaired roads which are likely to affect the path of the cyclist and if the motorist is too close just shaving past the cyclist, a repetition of this tragedy is likely time and time again. Leave space, check your rear and offside mirrors and look well ahead before moving out to pass a cyclist. There are times when it will be safer to delay overtaking until there is more space. The width of a car is the recommended passing distance between a cyclist and a motor vehicle.