It is one of the biggest annoyances for Dutch cyclists, and also an important cause of (serious) traffic accidents: poles on and around the bicycle paths. The Fietsersbond is now starting a campaign to remove as many dangerous poles as possible in the coming months.
Seriously injured
The numbers are clear. Every year, about 2400 cyclists come to the emergency room after a collision with a pole. Of these, 1500 people are in serious condition. There are even deaths from collisions with poles. According to Fietsersbond director Esther van Garderen, the cure is worse than the disease.
“We want posts to be removed, or if they really need to be improved. Now it sometimes seems as if the municipality simply places them for decoration. They certainly do not help to improve road safety.”
During the campaign, the Fietsersbond calls on cyclists to report dangerous poles to their municipality. Warning stickers can also be ordered on the site and the association is looking for stories and experiences. The more than 150 local branches of the Fietsersbond are also participating in the action.
Ratjetoe
There are no binding rules for placing bollards. Knowledge institute CROW does have guidelines, but research by the Fietsersbond it appears that a large majority of the bollards in the Netherlands do not comply with this. Esther van Garderen hopes that the campaign will make road authorities think more about placing bollards.
“At the moment it is a hodgepodge on and around the Dutch cycle paths. Many bollards do not comply with the CROW guidelines in any way. That really has to be different. There are many excellent alternatives to poles, and if you have to, at least provide a pole that will cause the least trouble for the cyclist.”
