RIDERS and road safety chiefs in North Lincolnshire have welcomed the launch of a new online map which pinpoints cycling accident hotspots in the UK.

The so-called "death map" features on a website showing police reports of fatal and serious injury incidents, with short descriptions of how cyclists were hurt.

A blue marker on the map shows a serious injury where the cyclist had to go to hospital, while red markers indicate a fatality.

The figures, compiled between 2000 and 2008, revealed there were 27 serious injuries in North Lincolnshire and five fatalities.

John Mould, vice-chairman of Lindsey Roads Cycling Club, said the map was a good idea.

"When you see it all together, it makes you realise what's happening," he said.

"Problems are mainly in city areas, with HGVs that have blind spots. Injuries usually occur when cars cut across."

One red tag on the cyclist casualty map is found at the junction of Scotter Road with West Common Lane.

It simply reads "10/7/01, Tuesday, 18:25, female, going ahead, small goods vehicle".

Each death and serious injury has a similarly blunt entry.

"It's often a case of 'sorry, I didn't see you mate' syndrome," said Mr Mould.

"You must be seen. I think motorists are not used to mixing with cyclists on roads."

He added he was concerned cycle lanes do not provide sufficient protection.

"Cycle paths always seem to put the cyclist into the danger point," said Mr Mould.

"They have to mix with traffic at roundabouts and junctions because the cycle paths end."

He advises cyclists to make themselves visible.

"I do a bit of racing and the organisers issued an advisory notice," said Mr Mould.

"We use red flashing lights, even in broad daylight. They're almost laser quality."

But Pete Scott, head of safer roads at North Lincolnshire Council, said cycle paths were crucial for biker safety.

"The council has invested significant sums in the construction of dedicated off-road and on-road cycle routes over recent years, making it safer for cyclists and also encouraging cycling, which is a sustainable and healthy form of transport," he said.

"There is also a comprehensive programme of child cycle training and education, which teaches children how to cycle safely in the highway."

London cyclist Ted Reilly developed the mapping system which is fed by Stats19, the reports police fill out for crashes causing death or injury.

The map can be found at citybeast.com/cyclistsyorks humber.html