‘Give cyclists space when passing’ say police after releasing dashcam footage of 70mph collision …driver got six penalty points

Cumbria Police have urged motorists to give cyclists at least 1.5m of space when overtaking after releasing footage of a van driver clipping a cyclist while driving at 70mph. The driver responsible admitted driving without due care and attention and was handed six penalty points and asked to pay £350 in fines and costs.

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On Wednesday July 24, at around 12.50pm, a 62-year-old cyclist was riding westbound on the A590 dual carriageway when he was hit by a passing van driven by 30-year-old Christopher Gadsden.

Police said the van hit the cyclist’s right elbow before a second impact between the cyclist and wing mirror.

The cyclist was knocked unconscious and ended up in the carriageway.

He suffered a fractured elbow and numerous lacerations and bruises on his body and face. He has no memory of the collision.

Police Constable Simon Smith said: “As the van approached the cyclist, the driver made no attempt to slow down or make adjustments to his course.

“The cyclist suffered serious injuries as a result of the collision. Thankfully there was an off-duty constable from Lancashire and an off-duty fireman from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service were quickly able to come to the man’s aid.”