KUALA LUMPUR: Police recorded 137 accident cases involving cyclists nationwide between January and October, 56 of them fatal accidents.
Another 18 saw serious injuries while 63 caused minor injuries, Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Azisman Alias.
Last year, police recorded 201 cycling-related accident cases, with 107 deaths, 35 serious injuries and 59 minor injuries.
“Cycling on the road has become a new trend among Malaysians of late. Although there are no restrictions to cycling on the road, cyclists are advised to always obey the traffic rules and regulations so as to ensure their own safety as well as that of other road users,” he said in a statement.
Azisman said cycling on main roads could affect the smooth flow of traffic as other vehicles also used the same roads, thus posing a risk to cyclists.
“The drivers of other vehicles, including lorries, buses, cars and even motorcyclists, have to be considerate and more cautious about cyclists, who are exposed to danger of accidents while riding on the road.
“Those who want to carry out cycling activities are advised to choose appropriate locations and times, such as in areas with less traffic and non-peak hours,” he said.
He also urged bike owners to ensure their equipment and bicycles had safety features, including making sure their cars are equipped with a roof rack carrier to transport their bicycles.
He said anyone who committed an offence while riding a bicycle on the road could be charged under the Road Transport Act 1987 and Road Traffic Rules 1959.