Drivers warned to treat cyclists with respect or expect prosecution

The force has revealed more inconsiderate motorists could see themselves being prosecuted for close passes – as they aim to 'change driver behaviour and concentrate minds on looking out for vulnerable road users'.

The force's traffic unit has outlined measures it intends to use in a comprehensive blog, called WMP Traffic.

The plans come following a period of review, which found cyclists safety campaigns are relatively ineffective compared to prosecutions.

The blog states: "We could make use of social media, press releases etc. to tell motorists to 'look out' for cyclists, but this has been ongoing with both cyclists and motorcyclists and although has some positive effect it doesn't reach the target audience.

"Our time and effort, we have quickly realised, is better spent enforcing the law and prosecuting.

"Once drivers become aware that an infringement involving a cyclist is one they should expect to be prosecuted for, they suddenly become more aware of them on the road and in turn start giving them the time and space they should lawfully have as an equal road user.

"Drivers need to expect a zero tolerance approach for any offence involving a vulnerable road user, or an offence that could contribute to a collision involving a vulnerable road user.

"The only way to change driver behaviour and concentrate minds on looking out for vulnerable road users and change driving habits is through enforcement, and the resulting fear of being prosecuted."

Despite the most common complaint to the police being in regards to close passes, the change in tactic comes in a bid to decrease the number of deaths and serious injuries, of which there were 530 between 2010 and 2014.

The Traffic Unit has also mapped out how they plan to tackle the issue.

The blog adds: "We have a new partnership scheme which will see a traffic officer riding the most vulnerable locations for cyclists looking to instantly act upon close passes, distracted driving and the like.

"The cycling traffic officer when passed too close will let the officer up the road know, who will in turn stop the motorist.

"Then the offender will be given a choice, prosecution or 15 minutes spent being educated as to the correct way to pass a cyclist.

"Those who are committing any other offence as well as the 'close pass' due care offence will be prosecuted for all offences, no immediate educational alternative for those who show such a low standard of driving."

The blog also offers some advice for cyclists which the blog says comes from 'our thousands of hours watching road user behaviour from an trained advanced road user perspective'.

As well as advising people that to always check the opposing traffic is slowing and intends to stop at a red light, the blog adds: "Don't think hi viz clothing will keep you seen, although hi viz has a place in some circumstances such as low light conditions, it is contrast that catches the attention of the driver who might pull out on you, that, and movements the human eye and brain are wired to detect."

It adds: "Cycling is a fantastic thing, its benefits are well documented, traffic congestion is reduced, as is pollution, health and wellbeing are boosted for the participants and not forgetting the resultant benefits of less dependence on a stressed NHS. When it comes to playing our part in supporting cycling and cyclists it's not a case of 'why should we?' it's a case of 'why wouldn't we?'"

The plans have been backed by former British racing cyclist Chris Boardman MBE.

Mr Boardman tweeted on Saturday: "Can't believe this from @WMpolice how incredibly... right!

"Well done, for leading with an evidence based policy."

Mr Boardman won an individual pursuit gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics.