Road users reminded to maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists

Image of police officer driving, with the words media release written on it
Publish date: Friday, 2 February 2024, Publish time: 10:18am

ACT Policing is reminding road users about their responsibilities when passing cyclists following an incident on State Circle. 

About 9.35am on Tuesday, 19 September 2023, a cyclist was travelling along State Circle when a truck approached from behind and passed the cyclist in close proximity. 

Under the Road Transport (Road Rules) Regulation 2017, motor vehicles passing bicycle riders are required to leave 1 metre between their car and the bicycle if the posted speed limit is up to 60km/h, and 1.5 metres if the posted speed limit is above 60km/h.  

If drivers cannot pass a cyclist safely, they should slow down and wait until it is safe to do so, leaving the required distance.  

Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road due to having limited protection, and are therefore at increased risk in the event of a collision with a motor vehicle. 

Drivers are urged to be considerate and vigilant around vulnerable road users. Fines and demerit points may apply for drivers who fail to follow the rules when passing a bicycle.  

 

 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES  

POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070,  act-police-media@afp.gov.au  

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