The Amy Gillett Foundation is today calling for all road users to avoid an increase in tension between pedestrians, cyclists and motorists following the tragic death of James Gould.

While the Foundation was born out of the tragic death of cyclist Amy Gillett, herself hit by an out of control car last year, it is clear that like any other vehicle, bicycles must show by their actions that they too can ride safely on our roads.

The Foundation is working with other groups and experts from around Australia to make life on our roads better and safer for everyone.

‘We recently conducted a forum with a variety of road users, from drivers of cars, trucks to other vehicles and bicycles and we plan to use it to assist our understanding of the current situation on our roads’, said Foundation General Manager Melinda Jacobsen.

‘Our thoughts are with the friends of Mr Gould, and any measures that can control dangerous riding or driving will be strongly supported by us. We plan to release data commissioned by the Amy Gillett Foundation in conjunction with the Monash University Accident Research Centre that will assist our understanding of the issues,’ she said.  

The Foundation has been concerned, since its establishment in late 2005, to find ways of improving the interaction of diverse user groups on our roads. In addition to commissioning research on road safety of key vehicle groups, other initiatives are being investigated to promote better safety for all in the areas of education and awareness. For example, the Foundation is investigating skills training programs for cyclists and seeks to work with driver instructors and licence testing authorities to increase young drivers awareness of, and confidence in the presence of, cyclists on the road.

The first research is expected to be published, in conjunction with the Monash University Accident Research Centre, next Friday 8 September.