Contraflow cycling does not increase crash rate

Allowing cycling in both directions on one-way streets does not pose a safety risk and should be made mandatory in all but exceptional cases, according to a new study by Leeds researchers. In the first large-scale research of its kind, crashes were examined on more than 500 streets over 22 years in London, both before and after contraflow cycling was introduced, and it was found that it did not increase cyclist crash or casualty rates. The introduction of cycling against the flow of traffic has often proved controversial because it was perceived to be unsafe, but the study says it is a safe, low-cost intervention which evidence says can improve the cycling experience and increase participation. European experience shows that it encourages more cycling and improves the pedestrian experience by reducing cycling on pavements. Caroline Tait, Leeds Institute for Data Analytics Caroline Tait, a PHD researcher with the Leeds Institute for Data Analytics , led the study which has been published in the journal Accident Analysis & Prevention. She said: "People are concerned about the safety aspects of this. They're worried that when they allow contraflow cycling, they're going to make it more risky for cyclists and drivers but these concerns aren't grounded in evidence.