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Casting a dreadful shadow over road safety maintenance, a concerning trend has recently sparked debates. With stinging claims of ruthless driving, the severity of hazardous cycling trips was further amplified after ascending counts of mishaps surfaced on its horizon. But how did this fateful mess transpire? 

Evidently, while shattering street safety notions across Laois, expert opinions eventually unveiled a darker picture. Highlighting a surge in reports of cycling tours under the influence, law enforcement authorities were compelled to voice their legitimate concerns. With a proactive approach, they joined hands to signify a united effort. As hopes soared high, the community sought a speedy change, criticizing this perilous trend! 

Disheartening elevation of cycling hazards ignite debates

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Due to a blatant rise in cycling accidents, Sinn Fein Councillor Caroline Dwane-Stanley raised the alarming issue during a Joint Policing Committee meeting. Her focus remained on inebriated individuals who recklessly navigated bicycles along crowded lanes. With chilling candor, she recounted witnessing instances where cyclists were seen wobbling dangerously across roads. 

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And if that was not concerning enough, Caroline further mentioned riders traveling under substance intoxication, which posed dreadful risks for nearby pedestrians as well. Echoing a lurking danger not typically associated with road safety campaigns, she pointed at a catastrophic wave involving drunk cycling escapades. Subsequently, Chief Superintendent Anthony Lonergan took a firm stance, backing the cause with probable solutions. 

Law enforcement officials exhibit genuine concerns 

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While narrating the urgency of reporting such incidents to the authorities, Lonergan also asked cycling enthusiasts to maintain caution throughout their rides. He encouraged the use of protective gear, along with advocating for suitable lights on their bikes. Adding to his statements, Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley shed light on another risky aspect commonly seen around the locality. 

Shocking enough, Deputy Stanley notified the deadly outcomes of cyclists neglecting reflective gears, a concern beyond alcoholic misdemeanors. Underscoring the imbalanced consequences of cycling crashes, he also explained how these stances were mostly harmful to the riders themselves. While sharing his opinions on the abundance of scooter collisions, Stanley boldly remarked, “They travel at high speeds and are deadly dangerous for pedestrians.”

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Mirroring the necessity for heightened awareness among cycling lovers, the authorities requested individuals follow the mandatory safety regulations. Moreover, they also declared getting complaints from areas like Portlaoise, Portarlington, and Mountrath due to vehicular dangers. With Laois facing a multifaceted challenge in fostering responsible road behavior, the urgency of addressing its causes became a priority for all. 

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