As part of the Cycling patrol campaign, people are invited to have their bicycles checked free of charge
Informing and educating road users is gradually improving road safety in Latvia, but there is still much to be done, especially when it comes to the safe integration of vulnerable road users in traffic. To continue the work launched last year, the insurance company BTA Baltic Insurance Company (hereinafter - BTA), in cooperation with the State Police, the Riga City Police and the Police Cycling Association, is organizing an information campaign called "Velopatruļa" (Bicycle Patrol) this summer, which will remind cyclists and electric scooter riders of the most important safety aspects and check the technical condition of their vehicles free of charge. The first campaign events will take place from 14 to 16 August at the AKROPOLE ALFA shopping centre.
State police statistics on road accidents involving bicycles and electric scooters paint a sad picture. In 2024, 565 cyclists were injured in road accidents, and six of them died. In less than seven months this year, the number of victims has already reached 274 persons, and unfortunately, five cyclists have died in accidents. Of all those injured in accidents over the past year and a half, 197 were minors. One child died in an accident.
Last year, electric scooter drivers were involved in 350 traffic accidents, 245 of which required medical assistance, and one electric scooter driver died. This year, the number of injured persons has already reached 106. There is an unfortunate trend in accidents involving electric scooters: while last year only one in six of those injured, or 46 of the total, were children, this year the proportion has almost doubled. Medical assistance was required for 31 minors, or nearly 30% of all victims.
These figures clearly demonstrate the need to raise public awareness about the safe coexistence of different modes of transport and pedestrians in traffic. Particularly serious work is needed with children and young people who are still learning the traffic regulations. In the Bicycle patrol "Velopatruļa" tent, interested parties will be able to obtain information on traffic rules for cyclists and electric scooter riders, receive advice on safe driving in urban and rural areas, and learn how to avoid the most common risks and accidents.
"Last summer, we successfully launched the Bicycle patrol "Velopatruļa" campaign, drawing public attention to the basic principles of safe driving. This year, we will continue this work, working with police officers to teach young road users how to reduce risks on the road, how to check the technical condition of their vehicles, and how to protect themselves from unexpected expenses in the event of an accident. We invite everyone to come with their everyday bikes, as the Bicycle patrol "Velopatruļa" specialists will perform a free technical assessment," says BTA Management Board member Evija Matveja.
During the Bicycle patrol "Velopatruļa" events, it will be possible to purchase a Cycling policy – an insurance policy that covers the treatment of injuries sustained by cyclists, provides third-party liability protection if a third party is injured in an accident, indemnifies for the value of the bicycle in the event of theft, and covers repair costs. Visitors will be able to learn more about Cycling Plus insurance, which also covers other vehicles for active leisure, including scooters.
"The State Police welcomes any initiative aimed at improving road safety, especially for vulnerable road users. Based on the statistics, we can conclude that cyclists and electric scooter riders, including children, are still frequently involved in accidents. Preventive work, including informing road users about traffic regulations and safety when participating in traffic, is an essential prerequisite for reduction of the number of accidents. Therefore, the State Police supports the activities of the Bicycle patrol "Velopatruļa" campaign to jointly promote responsible and safe participation in traffic," emphasizes Līna Bagdone, Senior Specialist of the Public Relations Department of the State Police.
Cycling patrol "Velopatruļa" team will be available at the entrance to AKROPOLE ALFA B on the following dates:
- August 14, 17:00-20:00
- August 15, 16:00-19:00
- August 16, 13:00-16:00
- August 28, 17:00-20:00
- August 29, 16:00-19:00
- August 30, 13:00-16:00
