New Road Rules to Protect Cyclists

New Road Rules to Protect Cyclists

Changes to the road rules have come into force to protect cyclists.

Drivers can be fined up to $1590 for passing a cyclist closer than 1m where the speed limit is 60kmh or less; and closer than 1.5m where the speed limit is more than 60kmh.

The distance is measured from the furthest point to the left of the vehicle (this includes mirrors and items strapped to the roof or a trailer) to the furthest point to the right of the bicycle (this includes panniers or baskets).

Drivers must now give way to cyclists (as well as pedestrians) using pedestrian crossings or children’s crossings or marked crossings with flashing yellow lights.

Cyclists are now allowed to use pedestrian, children’s and marked crossings.  The rider must give way to pedestrian and go “slowly and safely”.  The rider must stop near to the crossing before proceeding to ride across it.  The rules concerning lights at pedestrian crossings (e.g. don’t start to cross when the light is red) now apply to cyclists.

The Road Amendment (Safe Cycling) Rules 2017 commenced on 27 September 2017.