CYCLISTS THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO GET INJURED ON BENDY BUS ROUTES" - POPE

12.50.07pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 7th Jun 2007

Figures released today by Liberal Democrat Transport spokesman on the London Assembly, Geoff Pope, show that cyclists in London are three times more likely to get injured on a bendy bus route than on conventional routes.

Pedestrians are also twice as likely to get injured on bendy bus routes.

Commenting on the figures, Geoff Pope said:

"Cyclists are three times more likely to get injured on bendy bus routes as opposed to conventional bus routes. Given there are only 345 bendy buses, these numbers are worryingly high.

'We have had claims from cyclists that they have been terrified to find themselves crowded against safety barriers by bendy buses making left turns. Both pedestrians and cyclists find it hard to judge the line the bus is going to take.

'TfL have launched a costly advertising campaign about safer cycling. But these figures show that the money would be better spent stepping up safety training for drivers as well as a 'how is my driving' hotline to report poor driving. TfL should order and urgent and full review of bendy bus routes". ENDS

Notes to the Editors:

1. Figures can be seen in the download area of this site under transport.