ACT Policing is calling on cyclists and all road users to share the road as part of its ‘March Traffic Focus’ aimed at public transport passengers, e-scooters, bike riders and pedestrians.
Detective Superintendent with ACT Policing, Matt Craft said officers were constantly looking out for drivers who put cyclists at risk and cyclists who took chances with their own safety.
“We all have a responsibility to share the road,” Det Supt Craft said.
“The ACT is an active transport city whether that’s using a bike, e-scooter, light rail or buses, we can all do better at looking out for one another.”
He said there were a few things that everyone could do when sharing the road.
Det Supt Craft said cyclists should: Obey road rules; Be visible; Ride predictably; Anticipate other road-users’ actions; and Keep their bike in good working order.
“Good brakes, tyres and a bell will assist with safety,” he said.
“When riding two-abreast on a single lane road, cyclists must not ride more than 1.5m away from the other rider.
“Cyclists are not permitted to ride on a single lane road alongside more than one other rider unless overtaking or if they are taking part in an approved event.”
Det Supt Craft said drivers should leave one metre between their car and bicycle if the posted speed limit was up to 60km/h, and 1.5 metres if the speed limit was over 60km/h.
He advised drivers to: Watch for cyclists, particularly at intersections and roundabouts; Check behind them before opening car doors; and Anticipate other road-users’ actions.
“Remember that cyclists are legitimate road users,” Det Supt Craft said, “please treat all road users with respect and according to the road rules.”
