POLICE are to stage a clampdown on dodgy drivers who get too close to cyclists.
Plain-clothes officers will be cycling with cameras on their handlebars and the back of their bike.
When they are passed too closely by a car, the police cyclist will radio details to colleagues further up the road, who will pull over the offending motorist and talk to them about their driving.
Cops are also keen to stress that driving too close to a cyclist can be classed as careless driving and lead to a minimum punishment of three penalty points and a £100 fine.
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Inspector Andrew Thomson said: “Keeping all road users safe is a key priority for us and this campaign highlights that cyclists are vulnerable when being passed by vehicles too closely.
“Officers from Police Scotland will be working hard to raise awareness of this offence.”
A survey commissioned by Cycling Scotland suggests that the majority of local motorists are not aware that driving too close to cyclists can result in three penalty points.
Keith Irving, Cycling Scotland’s chief executive, said: “People who cycle regularly are likely to experience a very scary close pass incident every couple of days.
“Every week in Scotland, at least three people cycling suffer serious, potentially life-changing injuries, usually from a collision with a vehicle.
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“Our campaign raises awareness of the legal consequences for people driving too closely to someone cycling.”
Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, is backing the campaign.
He said: “Driving too close to a cyclist can put lives at risk.
“This campaign between Cycling Scotland and Police Scotland will raise awareness of the importance of safe passing distances and remind drivers of the action police will take if cyclists are put at risk.”
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