Large increase in injuries to cyclists on Irish roads

The number of cyclists being injured on our roads has spiked in recent years.

The Road Safety Authority says 630 bike users were hurt in 2012 - a 59% increase on the previous year.

Minister for Transport Paschal Donohue promoting cycling safety earlier this year.

The National Spinal Injuries Unit has also seen a 320% increase in the number of cyclists presenting with spinal injuries in the last five years.

Today, consultant orthopaedic surgeon Seamus Morris had this advice for cyclists: “Firstly wear a helmet because it’s easy to do...Wear reflective clothes in the urban environment and be aware of what’s going on around you.

“Wearing earphones, for example, on a bike is a bad idea. You’re not aware of traffic coming up behind you.”