What are the new laws for drivers passing cyclists?
From March 1, drivers in NSW must leave at least one metre of space when passing a cyclist in speed zones of 60km/h or less. They must leave at least 1.5 metres in higher speed zones.
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Is this just in NSW?
No. A trial of the laws has been in place in Queensland since April 2014. Similar measures were recently implemented in the ACT and South Australia. Tasmania also amended road rules a year ago to allow safer passing of cyclists.
What's this about an exemption on dividing lines?
If it is safe to do so, drivers can cross centre dividing lines or continuous lane-dividing lines to overtake a cyclist. They can also drive on painted islands and dividing strips to pass a bicycle, when safe to do so. If it's not safe, drivers must slow down and wait until there is enough space to pass.
Won't that mean increased head-on collisions?
Similar concerns were raised in Queensland. A full evaluation of the trial is pending, but Queensland's Transport and Main Roads says there have been no reports of increased collisions due to cars overtaking cyclists. Transport for NSW stresses that a driver can only cross lines when there is a clear view of the road ahead and it is safe to do so.
Do bike riders have to give cars a metre when passing?
No. Transport for NSW notes that "the minimum passing distance is specifically because cyclists are vulnerable" while advising cyclists to "leave sufficient room to avoid a collision" when passing cars.
What are the fines involved?
Drivers who breach these new laws face a $319 fine and a penalty of two demerit points.
What about new fines for cyclists?
Fines for some cycling offences will rise by as much as 500 per cent from the previous uniform fine of $71. Riding through a red light will attract a penalty of $425, as will not stopping at a children/pedestrian crossings and riding dangerously. Riding without a helmet or holding onto a moving vehicle will carry a $319 fine. The fine for all other cycling offences - such as not having a bell or similar warning device - will rise to $106.
Must cyclists carry ID?
Update: On Friday, the government announced: "The requirement for bicycle riders to produce photo identification when stopped by police who suspect they have committed an offence will start in 2017. The next 12 months is about education and getting cyclists to start carrying ID."
Are bicycles going to be registered?
No. Announcing the measures in December, Roads Minister Duncan Gay said suggestions of bike-specific licences and registration were rejected by the committee that worked on the new laws. (Here's an editorial on 18 reasons why registering bicycles is a bad idea.)
Want to know more?
►Visit the Transport for NSW Go Together website for more information.
Fairfax journalist Michael O'Reilly writes the On Your Bike blog.
