### Thames Valley Police Apologize for Misleading Advice
Thames Valley Police have apologized for a social media post that appeared to advise drivers to leave only an “arm’s length” of space while overtaking cyclists. The post sparked criticism from cyclists, prompting the police to acknowledge the mistake and issue a reminder to motorists to leave at least 1.5 meters of space when passing cyclists.
### Controversy over the Image
The image shared by Thames Valley Police in the original post showed a cyclist standing next to a car with his arm outstretched, suggesting that an arm’s length was sufficient for a safe pass. However, cyclists and safety advocates questioned the accuracy of this advice, pointing out that the Highway Code recommends a minimum distance of 1.5 meters for overtaking cyclists.
### Response from Cycling Community
Cycling Mikey, a cycle safety advocate, stressed that the image shared by the police was not a safe pass and highlighted the importance of following the Highway Code’s guidelines. Other cyclists also shared photos illustrating the recommended safe passing distance, which is closer to 2 meters rather than the 0.7 meters shown in the original image.
### Police Respond to Criticism
In response to the backlash, Thames Valley Police deleted the post and issued a new one featuring the correct image from the Highway Code. They acknowledged the error and apologized for any confusion caused, emphasizing the importance of giving cyclists at least 1.5 meters of space when overtaking.
### Repeat Offender on Social Media
This incident is not the first time Thames Valley Police have faced criticism for their social media posts related to cyclists. In 2022, their West Oxfordshire branch came under fire for what many deemed as “victim-blaming” language in posts about a collision involving a cyclist and a car. The posts ended with a reminder for cyclists to wear helmets, which was seen as irrelevant by many.
### Backlash from Cyclists
Cyclists on social media expressed their frustration with the lack of clarity in the police’s posts and questioned the focus on helmet-wearing rather than addressing the root causes of collisions. Some compared the helmet reminder to asking stabbing victims to wear stab vests, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach to road safety.
### Positive Reaction to Corrective Action
While the initial post received criticism, Thames Valley Police’s decision to delete it and replace it with accurate information was met with praise from cyclists and safety advocates. The police acknowledged their mistake and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting vulnerable road users like cyclists.
### Importance of Following Guidelines
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following established guidelines, such as the Highway Code, to ensure the safety of all road users. By providing accurate information and guidance, authorities can help prevent accidents and promote a culture of mutual respect and safety on the roads.
Ringkasan
Kepolisian Thames Valley telah meminta maaf dan mengingatkan pengendara bahwa mereka harus memberikan ruang setidaknya 1,5 meter kepada para pengendara sepeda saat melampaui, setelah sebuah postingan media sosial dan gambar yang menyarankan kepada pengemudi bahwa jarak “lengan” cukup aman untuk melintas, dengan tegas dikritik oleh para pengendara sepeda – memaksa kepolisian untuk mengklaim bahwa saran tersebut diposting “dalam kesalahan”.
Apakah Anda setuju dengan pandangan polisi Thames Valley mengenai jarak yang aman saat melintasi sepeda? Apakah menurut Anda foto dalam postingan asli mereka menunjukkan celaan yang tepat? Bagikan pendapat Anda di kolom komentar di bawah!
Bahkan setelah penggantian saran tersebut mendapat pujian dari para pengendara di media sosial, kali ini bukanlah pertama kalinya Kepolisian Thames Valley dikritik atas keluaran media sosial mereka yang berkaitan dengan para pengendara sepeda. Bagaimana pendapat Anda tentang penggunaan media sosial oleh kepolisian dalam hal keselamatan pengendara sepeda? Apakah menurut Anda penting bagi pihak berwenang untuk memberikan saran yang jelas dan akurat kepada masyarakat terkait aspek keselamatan di jalan raya? Silakan bagikan pendapat Anda di bawah!
Sumber berita silahkan Cek di sini Source link . jangan lupa baca berita/artikel terkait melalui link di bawah. dan silahkan cek artikel otomotif dari otomotif.autos sekarang di : artikel otomotif
