Sharing the Road

Top tips for drivers to share the road safely with cyclists

When you're driving, you need to share the road with other vehicles, including cycles. Cyclists are more vulnerable on the road as they are less visible and less well protected than other road users. Because of this, you should be alert for cyclists on the road and drive carefully when near them.

• Take special care when driving near a cyclist - slow down when passing them. Be prepared for them to move without warning.
• Indicate clearly and in plenty of time when turning and stopping.
• Cycles are vehicles and have as much right to be on the road as you.
• Know your blind spots, especially when driving vans, trucks or buses, and check again for cyclists.
• Take another look at intersections. Cycles are smaller than other vehicles, and many drivers who hit them claim not to have seen them.
• Avoid overtaking a cyclist just before you turn at an intersection.
• Take care when passing cyclists on the open road. Slow down and, ideally, leave at least 1.5 metres of space between you and the cyclist.
• Check rear-view mirrors and look over your shoulder before you open a car door at the roadside.
• Don't insist on your right of way, even when the cyclist is in the wrong.
• Slow down and be alert when visibility is reduced. Cyclists are often hard to see, and are even more so in the rain or in low-light conditions.

When you're driving, you need to share the road with other vehicles, including cycles.

Cyclists are more vulnerable on the road as they are less visible and less well protected than other road users. Because of this, you should be alert for cyclists on the road and drive carefully when near them.

Top tips for cyclists to stay safe on our roads

We love to cycle in the Western Bay. Here are a few hints and tips for cyclists to help keep all our road users safe.

• Pull over if possible to allow vehicles to pass
• Keep control of your bike and the situation
• Ride to be seen and to be predictable
• Choose safe routes
• Be friendly and patient
• Be considerate and share the road!

If you are not sure what the rules are around cycling on roads, check out the New Zealand code for cyclists.