In the wake of the tragic death of seven-year-old Nicolò Di Ciò in Turin, 25 associations dedicated to sustainable mobility and the rights of pedestrians and cyclists have united to advocate for significant changes in Italy’s approach to road safety. On September 22, Nicolò was fatally struck by a car while cycling to school with his father on the bike lane of Corso Regina Margherita, a road with a 30 km/h speed limit. The exact circumstances of the incident, including whether the bike lane was properly respected and the speed limit adhered to, are still under investigation. (bikeitalia.it)
In response to this heartbreaking event, the coalition of associations has issued a joint appeal to two key ministries:
To the Ministry of Education and Merit (MIM):
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Moment of Reflection: The associations request that all Italian schools dedicate a moment to reflect on road safety in memory of Nicolò. This initiative aims to raise awareness among students and staff about the importance of safe mobility practices.
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Appointment of School Mobility Managers: They advocate for the appointment of a school mobility manager in every institution. This role would focus on ensuring the safety of students’ journeys to and from school and promoting active mobility options like walking and cycling.
To the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT):
- Reform of the Highway Code: The associations call for a revision of the Highway Code that prioritizes the protection of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. They emphasize the need for regulations that safeguard these groups and ensure the safety of school routes.
The appeal underscores a collective responsibility to create a transportation system that protects its most vulnerable users. The associations argue that the death of a child should not be seen as an isolated incident but as a reflection of systemic issues within the mobility system. They stress the importance of developing norms, infrastructure, and controls that effectively protect those most at risk. (bikeitalia.it)
In the aftermath of Nicolò’s death, the Vanchiglia district in Turin has been at the forefront of advocating for safer streets. Residents and activists have organized human bike lanes and placed a white bicycle—a symbol of remembrance for road traffic victims—at the site of the incident. These actions aim to draw attention to the need for safer cycling infrastructure and to honor Nicolò’s memory. (rainews.it)
The tragic loss of Nicolò has ignited a broader conversation about road safety in Italy, particularly concerning the safety of children traveling to school. The collective efforts of these associations and the community highlight the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again.
For a comprehensive understanding of the appeal and the associations involved, you can download the full text of the appeal here. (bikeitalia.it)