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French cyclist's jersey shows overtaking distance to drivers on back

In 2020, some 60,000 cyclists were treated by France's emergency services following road accidents

A cyclist has developed a jersey designed to encourage motorists to keep their distance as they overtake on French roads.

It's a simple message, simply told. Clearly printed on the back of the jersey developed by a cycling enthusiast in the Pyrénées-Orientales is a reminder of the passing distance in the French highway code.

Article R414-4 in the code states that the minimum distance for passing a cyclist is 1m in towns and 1.5m outside built-up areas - but it is a rule that motorists appear to forget.

In 2020, some 60,000 cyclists were treated by France's emergency services following incidents on the country's roads.

A few years ago, Lilian Cornelli was involved in a collision while out on his bike. It prompted him to develop the , one for town riders, and one for those who head out into country roads. They are available online for €35 and €79.

And according to its creator, the shirt works: since he has taken to wear his "signaling jersey", Mr Cornelli has noticed a clear improvement in driver behaviour.

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