A SHOCKING video shows the moment that a cyclist narrowly manages to swerve and avoid being struck by a car.
The heart-stopping incident occurred earlier this week on the junction between Dalmeny Street and Leith Walk.
The road has become notorious for drivers pulling out over a pedestrianised walkway which is built to aid pedestrians and cyclists.
However, shocking scenes shared online show the horror moment when a driver decides to give themselves right of way and almost clatters the helpless cyclist.
The video begins with the cyclist heading past Storrie’s bakery on Leith Walk and heading towards popular eaterie La Casa.
As the cyclist passes the tram stop at Balfour Street they begin to pedal across the street with no issue.
The car then appears out of the screen and shows no sign of braking to allow for the cyclist to continue their journey.
Instead, the driver cuts across the cyclist in a cynical manner prompting the unknown rider to let out a roar of dismay.
The blue Skoda then drives off towards Elm Row in the capital seemingly oblivious to the close-call that has just taken place.
The video was shared to Facebook on Wednesday with the caption: “A wee reminder for drivers – pedestrians and cycle path users always have priority at the Dalmeny Street/Leith Walk junction.
“It’s a continuous crossing, which allows you to drive across the pavement once there’s space.
“A nice role reversal, but not very common in the UK yet.
“I’ve seen a number of close calls here recently, as well as pedestrians giving way to cars who should be stopping.
“I’m sure we can all agree it’d be s**t to see anyone getting hit by a car here.”
The video has been liked hundreds of Facebook users and received dozens of comments from supportive viewers.
One user wrote: “For something very uncommon it’s very confusing.
“[I’m] glad I don’t drive and don’t have to negotiate it.
“[It] could do with better signage to explain who has right of way, better road markings to slow people in the right place and something to slow people down.”
Another commented: “Some people should not have a driving licence.”
A third replied: “Accidents waiting to happen, clowncil, madness.”
Another added: “Fairly sure that all of these cross pavement junctions have solid stop lines before the pavement begins, coming off the side streets onto the walk. Problem is many drivers (read most), can’t drive safely and correctly.”
A fifth wrote: “Stupid place for a bike lane seen people getting hit by bikes when the step out to get a bus no good for people who are blind either another great idea by the council.”
Speaking today Inspector Kos Papakyriakou, of Roads Policing, Police Scotland said: “Designated cycle lanes are in place to provide a degree of separation and protection for cyclists.
“It is important that drivers pay attention and are considerate of their purpose and use.
“Officers regularly patrol the area and appropriate action will be taken should this not be the case.”
