Antwerp region launches autumn bicycle safety campaign

A new bicycle safety campaign, ‘Snelheid voelt goed, aankomen voelt beter’ (Speed feels good, arriving feels better), is launching in the Antwerp region on September 15. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving local governments, businesses, Voka, the Flemish government, and the Province of Antwerp.

The campaign aims to prepare cyclists for the challenges of the autumn months, such as reduced daylight, rain, wind, mist, and wet roads. It emphasizes simple preventative measures, including regular bicycle maintenance, properly adjusted lighting, the use of reflective clothing, and adjusting riding styles to match weather and traffic conditions.

Data indicates that approximately two-thirds of cycling accidents occur without the involvement of other road users, often resulting from falls, steering errors, or slipping. Officials noted that the increasing use of bicycles and speed pedelecs for commuting necessitates heightened awareness and safety precautions during seasonal transitions.