Highways and cyclists, a difficult coexistence

Many cyclists become victims of traffic accidents every year. Whether they are runners in training or cycling enthusiasts, they are often put in danger by motorists, especially on highways. Therefore, the authorities call on everyone to show courtesy and adopt a good safety response.

Alexander Meier was injured when he was hit by a truck during training in Midrand last Saturday. Fortunately, the Mauritius Marathon mountain bike champion escaped with more fear than injury. However, others were not as lucky as he was. Many cyclists recognize that some motorists engage in dangerous behavior and that failure to comply with highway regulations and other users is a recurring problem for motorists. Alain Jeannot, president of Prévention Routière Avant Tout, said the main culprit is the lack of urban planning since the highway was built. “The original purpose of this highway was to connect the airport to Port Louis and facilitate the transportation of sugar from the north to Port Louis. Abroad, there are already urban plans to use highways.”

Besides, he believes that two-wheelers, including cyclists, should not be allowed on highways. “But we make do with what we have.” He stressed an important point about using the highway: “Motorists can travel at speeds between 80 km/h and 110 km/h. At these speeds, the force of the air is very powerful. When a four-wheeled vehicle passes a two-wheeled vehicle (motorized or not), there is a problem because the force of the air can destabilize the cyclist. I think in the absence of police, cyclists are better supervised by cyclists and law enforcement officers. As a result, truck, car or bus drivers will be more aware of the presence of cyclists and be able to be more vigilant.”

Alain Jeannot also asked cyclists to remain vigilant, especially when training on highways. “They should wear clothing that clearly identifies them. We can also restrict certain sections of road so runners can train safely. Why not install signs to warn motorists that this section of road is for cyclists to train?”

Inspector Shiva Kushen, head of the police communications department, urged cyclists, especially when training on highways or riding on regular roads, to wear reflective clothing and equip their bikes with lights. These measures make them more visible, especially in foggy weather, which is common in winter.

Another suggestion from Inspector Shiva Coothen is for cyclists to avoid riding in groups. “It is good to ride side by side now. Since the authorized speed on the highway is 110 km/h, it is not recommended for cyclists to risk training there. Motorists must be alert and consider cyclists and two-wheelers as they are the most vulnerable users.” He asked motorists to anticipate the movements of two-wheel users. While waiting for the cycle lanes to be built in the next few years, those training on the roads need to be vigilant…

3,854 tickets issued in 72 hours

From Friday to Monday, police checked a total of 6,839 vehicles. Of these, 2,847 motorists and 459 motorcyclists were fined for various offences. In addition, 62 drivers tested positive for alcohol and 18 tested positive for drugs. There were also 468 speeding violations. It is clear that many road users continue to disregard safety rules and endanger their own lives and the lives of others.

These cyclists met a tragic end

Despite the injury, Alexander Meyer still considers himself lucky. In fact, other cyclists have also met tragic ends. We remember the accident in 2012 in which Jérôme Tennant was hit by a drunk driver in New France, which resulted in his death. The driver also caused injuries to former national football players David Busfield and Philippe Colin. The accident left David Busfield quadriplegic, while Philippe Colin survived with multiple injuries. In 2018, the offending driver was sentenced to one month in prison and two fines of 50,000 rupees, one for reckless manslaughter and the other for reckless assault and battery. He also received two other fines of 10,000 rupees for not reporting the accident and driving under the influence of alcohol. In 2003, a tragedy also occurred when young Ashley Matoka was participating in a training session in the La Nicolière area. He was hit by a car and his club teammate Ludovic Ludiaram was also injured.