Sharing the road with bicycle riders

Bicycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers and motorcycle riders. When driving, be on the look out for bicycle riders as they are smaller than cars and harder to see.

Drivers who pass a bicycle rider must allow a distance of at least:

• 1 metre when the speed limit is 60km/h or less
• 1.5 metres when the speed limit is more than 60km/h

In order to provide the minimum safe passing distance to a bicycle rider, drivers are exempt from certain road rules. These exemptions allow drivers to drive to the right of the centre of the road, cross or straddle broken and unbroken lines, flat painted islands and flat dividing strips as long as it is safe to do so, and provided the driver has a clear view of approaching traffic.

Safety tips when driving near bicycle riders:

• Bicycle riders are more difficult to see than cars or trucks, especially at night. Take care to check for bicycle riders in blind spots
• Always check for bicycle riders whenever you travel on the road particularly when turning at intersections
• Sometimes a bicycle can travel as fast or faster than a car, particularly in slow-moving traffic. Never underestimate their speed and be sure not to cut them off by moving in front of them. Remember that it takes longer for a bicycle to stop than a car at the same speed
• Check in your rear view and side mirrors to avoid opening your car door into the path of bicycle riders. This can be dangerous and the person exiting a car could be at fault if an accident occurs
• At times bicycle riders may need a full width lane to ride safely due to rough road edges and gravel. Be prepared to slow down and allow the rider to travel away from the kerb
• Children on bikes can be unpredictable – be prepared to slow down and stop
• Bicycle riders are allowed to ride two abreast, (side by side).

It is against the law for bicycle riders to ride on footpaths, unless they are:

• Under 16 years of age
• An adult 18 years or older supervising a child under 16 years old
• Under 18 years old and riding with an adult who is supervising for a child under 16 years old
• On a footpath that is for shared use by bicycle riders and pedestrians
• On a designated bicycle path