Motorists and cyclists encouraged to share the road
Police intercepted this utility after complaints from cyclists on Currumbin Creek Road
Police have received reports of vehicles travelling too close to cyclists and sounding warning devices unnecessarily. One driver was issued with an infringement notice for driving a defective vehicle and issued with a $121 fine after footage was provided of the driver overtaking close to cyclists and the vehicle sliding in a wet corner.
The Currumbin Valley is an increasingly popular route for cyclists and will continue to be in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games. Motorists can get frustrated when stuck behind a group of cyclists, however, cyclists are lawfully entitled to do so, and it is a proven safe practice for cyclists to ride in this manner.
- “Motorists can lawfully overtake cyclists across double centre lines when safe to do so,” under section 139A of the Transport Operations Road Use Management (Regulations) 2009.
- Cyclists can lawfully ride two abreast, the same as motorcycles and horses.
- Cyclists can lawfully ride three abreast when overtaking.
76 cyclists on the Gold Coast have also been issued infringement notices for a range of offences from not wearing helmets to, failing to stop at red lights, using mobile phones and failing to give way.
Motorists sometimes become impatient and frustrated when caught behind cyclists. Cyclists also need to be considerate when riding in groups to try and facilitate vehicles being able to pass. This can be quite difficult on certain roads however cyclists also need to heed the ‘share the road’ message.
Cyclists are vulnerable road users and an impact from a vehicle is potentially life threatening. Many cyclists are riding to train for charity rides which raise a significant amount of money for organisations like the Heart Foundation supported by the upcoming Brisbane to Gold Coast Bike Ride on October 14. ome are elite athletes, and some just ride for health and fitness. The Darren Smith memorial route and the Luke Harrop Cycling Criterium circuit are reminders of that vulnerability.
Irrespective of why they are on the road, cyclists and motorists must share the road.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
Source: Gold Coast Crime Alert
