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IAM: Bikes in bus lanes should improve safety

Published: 17 January 2012

Transport for London's decision to allow motorbikes and cyclists to use bus lanes should, in theory, improve safety on the capital's roads, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has suggested.

However, this will only be the case if motorists are aware of the potential hazards that may be caused by these road users and adapt their driving styles accordingly.

To avoid making claims on their car insurance, drivers must realise that as bikes are likely to be riding closer to the nearside kerb, they may be less visible than usual.

IAM chief executive Simon Best commented: "Safer motorcycling in busy cities will encourage more moped and motorcycle use which can only be a good thing for traffic flow."

He added that responsible cyclists and motorcyclists should find it safer to travel in the bus lane, but efforts need to be made to ensure road users are aware of the new risks this poses.