A MOTORIST has spoken of her concerns about the number of pedestrians and cyclists on Bridport lanes on winter mornings and early evenings who she says are almost impossible to see.

She is worried there will be a fatality as so few people in the area are wearing hi-visibility clothing or have torches or head torches, she says.

The woman, who doesn’t wish to be named for fear of reprisal, said she recently struggled to see a woman on a lane at around 5.30pm, who was bringing horses in while wearing dark clothing.

“I’m horrified by the number of people riding around who you’re not able to see as a driver this time of year.

“There are people in dark clothing on bikes with no lights on – I don’t think people realise how difficult it is to see them. As a motorist you don’t want to hit anyone.

“A hi-vis to wear on top of your clothes costs about £2.”

The woman said the problem is worse in the late afternoon at dusk and seems to be more of a local problem restricted to Bridport.

She said for minimal cost people can easily pick up hi-vis jackets, a torch and a head torch.

“I was in Exeter and there you see cyclists with headtorches and flashing lights, perhaps they’re a bit more aware because they live in a city. I think it’s a Bridport thing," she said.

“I’m concerned and worried about this and I just want to try and warn people. I just think they’re not aware.

“I’m thinking of drivers and the impact it would have on them if they ended up hitting someone.

“I would hate to see a front page story of a pedestrian or cyclist being hit because they couldn’t be seen.

“I just think we need a bit of education so that people ensure they make themselves seen.”

A Dorset Police spokeswoman said the force has produced an education booklet on road safety for all road users and has 'a wealth of information' on the Dorset Road Safe website, which can be found at www.dorsetroadsafe.org.uk

Dorset Police advises pedestrians to 'see and be seen'. It says:

  • Drivers need to see you so wear bright colours or reflective clothing if you are walking near traffic at night.
  • Carry a torch when walking in the dark.
  • Make eye contact with drivers when crossing busy streets.
  • On country roads always walk on the right hand side facing on-coming traffic.

Cyclists are advised to:

  • Wear a helmet, wear high visibility clothing 
  • Pass wide around parked vehicles
  • Position where you can see and be seen in the mirror of large vehicles
  • You MUST use a white front and red rear light at night.