Research & Attached Article from Spokes Dunedin

From recent Spokes Dunedin newsletter...

"Research is also telling us, loud and clear, that simple and inexpensive measures like reducing speed are vitally important. This is an area where we can all make an effort to change our mindset about how we behave when behind the wheel of a car. So, please remember to slow down when driving, not only on the open road but when in built up areas. Just because it says 50km/hr doesn't mean to say we can't go 30 or 40km/hr. " 

Some recent "infrastructure" reports from the UK and NZ you might enjoy. They conclude that if we do not adequately address speed and volume issues we won't succeed in improving cycle safety except at the very edge. 
1. Infrastructure and cyclist safety (UK, document

attached)     http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/to-increase-cyclist-safety-reduce-motor-vehicle-speeds/012278      http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/infrastructure-and-cyclist-safety     http://www.trl.co.uk/online_store/reports_publications/trl_reports/cat_road_user_safety/report_infrastructure_and_cyclist_safety.htm 
"Of all interventions to increase cycle safety, the greatest benefits come from reducing motor vehicle speeds. Interventions that achieve this are also likely to result in casualty reductions for all classes of road user. This may be achieved by a variety of methods, including physical traffic calming; urban design that changes the appearance and pedestrian use of a street; and, possibly, the wider use of 20 mph (30K) speed limits." 

2. Assessment of the type of cycling infrastructure required to attract new cyclists (NZ Document link) http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/research/reports/449/ http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/research/reports/449/docs/449.pdf " The research showed that safety was the most significant issue for potential cyclists, particularly in relation to vehicle driver behaviour and traffic volume."