WHILE driving during the exceptionally hot dry and sunny weather recently, I became aware of the danger of cyclists travelling along roads and lanes during periods of very bright sunlight.

Trees adjacent to the roads and lanes cast very dark shadows over the routes temporally hiding cyclists and pedestrians, even those with high-vis clothing, making it nearly impossible for them to be seen by drivers when driving from bright sunlight into very dark shadows.

Drivers need to be especially cautious when approaching a bend on an incline into an area of shadow and anticipate the possibility of a cyclist or pedestrian being on the road. An example of many of such conditions is on the B6251, Bracewell Lane from the A59 to Barnoldswick.

There has been a noticeable increase in the number of cyclists over the past few years so drivers should be aware of the potential problem, as should cyclists who should always wear reflective clothing and have safety lighting at the front and rear of their bikes.

Road safety is of paramount importance for those at the wheel or in the saddle.

Tony Carroll

Member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM)

Giggleswick