July is the worst month for bicycle/motor vehicle collisions, according to claims statistics released by Manitoba Public Insurance. On average annually, there are 266 bicycle victims in Manitoba – 18 per cent of those victims are injured in July.
With the long-term goal of educating both cyclists and motorists as to their respective rights and responsibilities when sharing the road together, Manitoba’s public auto insurer has worked in partnership with provincial cycling advocacy groups to develop a new, user-friendly cycling initiative.
“The province’s cycling groups were key contributors to the new materials now available to the public,” said Ted Hlynsky, Vice-President Claims Control and Safety Operations with Manitoba Public Insurance.
“The Corporation’s new cycling safety initiative is user friendly and aimed at all ages of riders. Collision statistics confirm that both motorists and cyclists will benefit from increased safety awareness.”
While the cycling safety initiative is aimed primarily at the growing number of adult cyclists who ride for recreational and commuter purposes, a significant portion of the material is also dedicated to educating children.
In addition to refreshing the ‘I Cycle Safely’ brochure, a unique children’s cycling safety presentation that includes instructions on how interested groups can organize their very own Bike Rodeo for children has been developed for community groups, daycares and elementary schools.
The cycling information now available on Manitoba Public Insurance’s website covers topics such as bike maintenance and safety equipment, safe cycling practices and the rights and responsibilities of both motorists and cyclists when sharing the road together. The new cycling initiative also includes:
• A new “Bike Safely” booklet that will be available through retail bike shops, Manitoba Public Insurance Service Centres and Autopac agents throughout Manitoba.
• Presentation materials, including a PowerPoint presentation, facilitator’s guide and speaking notes that corporate wellness specialists, community groups and high school physical education teachers can use to promote cycling and raise awareness about safe cycling practices.
• The “I Cycle Safely” brochure for children has been refreshed and will be distributed at Bike Rodeo events throughout the summer as well as being available for download.
• A children’s cycling safety presentation that includes instructions on how interested groups can organize their very own Bike Rodeo for children has been developed for community groups, daycares and elementary schools.
• The Corporation continues to be a proud sponsor of a number of important cycling events in Manitoba including the Commuter Challenge, Bike to Work Day and Ciclovia.
