Drivers - sharing the road with cyclists

Share and be aware - travelling together safely

M7 cycleway with cyclists image

No matter how we choose to travel - ride, drive or walk - the road is there for everyone to share. To make it work, motorists, motorcyclists and bicycle riders need to respect each other. By following some simple rules, together we can save lives and make travelling on the road less stressful.

In your car

Roads aren't exclusive to cars. As a car car, bus, van or truck driver, please drive with consideration and share the road with other road users, including other motorists, pedestrians and bicycle riders. Always check your blind spots - you never know who may be there.

As a motorist always make sure you:

Give way at pedestrian crossings.
Change lanes when overtaking bicycle riders on multi-lane roads and allow at least one metre space for bicycle riders in a single lane situation.
Check for pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorcyclists before you turn or proceed at intersections.
Check in your mirrors and over your shoulder for bicycle riders before opening your door. It is illegal to cause a hazard to any bicycle rider, pedestrian or vehicle by opening a door or getting out of a vehicle.

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.
When overtaking give bicycle riders a safe amount of space. This means at least one metre to the side in a 50 km/h zone. If the speed limit is higher, bicycle riders need more space for their safety.
Always check for bicycle riders whenever you travel on the road, particularly when turning at intersections.
Sometimes a bicycle can travel as fast as 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 legally your fault.
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).