Do They Really Think This Will Make Any Difference....

[ToraToraTora]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-25910305
why do they need there own traffic lights? they can even obey the proper ones!

[Baldric]

The average cyclist doesn't know what a Traffic Light is for!

[237SJ]

I think it`s a good idea. I presume they have installed them where there have been accidents involving cyclists so anything that saves lives is good. It seems the lights give the cyclists a head start before the lights change so maybe they will be more inclined to obey them.

[emmie]

having been around that area recently, i can testify that is probably one of the most dangerous areas i know for cyclists,
i don't cycle now, but would have avoided this junction at all costs and if they have installed a safety device, any device to stop the loss of life, then one should do it. There were half a dozen traffic police directing the traffic, cyclists, it's a blackspot that needs better lanes for all.

[WELSHYORKIE]

A bit like indicators on a BMW - they may be there but they won't be used..................

[Baldric]

I drive a Beemer, I use the indicators and the mirrors
and don't do cheap jokes!

[douglas9401]

Cyclists are already equipped with the very best of safety equipment in their eyes and brain.
Disasters tend to happen when that equipment is not used to the full.
Some might see the cramming of even more signage and road markings into a finite space as a recipe for confusion coupled with a false sense of security.

[Gromit]

// The new signals are incorporated in to existing lights, which give cyclists an early start ahead of the traffic. //

So the lights are parsed slightly different to let cycles move off ahead of following traffic. The theory is that instead of anticipating the change in the lights and jumping them to get ahead, they know they will be able to move first.
Not sure if it will work, but it is work a try if it saves lives. They will be monitored by the Transport and Road Research Laboritory to see if they work.

[seadogg]

I have cycled in Bow and seen little bunches of flowers at that junction. Nevertheless it may be an expensive way of achieving a solution as cyclists can be helped by having a reserved area at the front where there are traffic lights. No solution works for air head cyclists and bullying BMW'S.

[emmie]

seadogg, agree no solution works for airhead cyclists however this is a major junction, and it's a dog's breakfast as far as cyclists and traffic is concerned, it's been altered again and again, same as one in our area, another horrible, useless bit of planning, so if they have installed some lights let them see if it cuts down the injuries, and the fatalities.

[DaisyNonna]

How will this affect pedestrians crossing the road?

[emmie]

not sure, but i know i wouldn't cross there, it is a very difficult junction,

[mikey4444]

If it saves lives it must be worth trying surely ?

[emmie]

yes. personally i would redesign many of these cycle lanes, they are not fit for purpose.

[FredPuli43]

In France, the traffic lights have repeater lights at eye-level for car drivers. Very sensible. We should have them here. Bow roundabout is particularly notorious for accidents, some fatal, involving cyclists. They need all the help they can get.