
By Kelly Yates
POLICE will be clamping down on cyclists not wearing helmets as they begin a new operation in Narre Warren, Endeavour Hills and Cranbourne.
Bicycle patrols will be conducted around schools and shopping centres during March and April as police try to reduce the carnage on roads involving cyclists.
Last year police were called to 20 City of Casey collisions involving cyclists, seven of which were serious injury.
The aim of the operation is to promote and educate the community about the importance of bicycle safety, according to Senior Sergeant Cecily Dyos from the Endeavour Hills police station.
Casey youth resource officer Dave Smith told the News police wanted to reinforce the bicycle safety message.
“We’ve noticed that cyclists are still not complying with the law and wearing helmets,” he said.
“We will be monitoring all cyclists and taking appropriate action where necessary.”
The penalty notice for cyclists riding bicycles without wearing a helmet is $57.
“Cyclists need to make sure they are doing the right thing,” he said.
“Wearing a helmet does save lives but not if it’s sitting on the handlebars or at home in the garage.”
Schools in the area will be notified about the operation.