Kingsley-based rider Steve Gaensler told ABC Radio this morning of his frustration about several close passing incidents he has reported to Police backed by bike camera footage – with no infringements as yet issued. [Link in comments]
Gaensler told Mark Gibson’s Breakfast show most drivers “are great with cyclists” but the daily bike commuter continues to experience some who, “deliberately intimidate cyclists, deliberately driving close, deliberately accelerating while they are driving close, cutting in on us – it’s happening a lot.”
Greater enforcement and education is key
WestCycle CEO Wayne Bradshaw has this to say on WA’s safe passing laws that have been in place since 2017 – and which exist in every Australian state and territory.
“WestCycle remains concerned about the number of close passing incidents we hear riders are reporting to Police – and hope more infringements can be issued in the immediate future.
Without adequate education – and enforcement – interactions where people drive vehicles dangerously close to riders will continue.
For example, just as many drivers may not be aware they can be fined $400 for failing to pass riders at a safe distance, they may also be unaware it is totally legal to cross unbroken lines and painted islands to pass riders at a safe distance.
We are working with the Road Safety Commission to better understand why drivers fail to pass riders at a safe distance, be it ignorance of the law, carelessness, attitudes to riders or other factors – as well as how frequently these incidents are occurring.
We have also requested a meeting with the Police about this issue that we hope will take place soon. These illegal close passes are frightening. For novice riders, or people who are attempting to use a bike for the first time in years, it can mean the end. They stop riding, throw their bike away.
Along with our recent and ongoing education campaign about safe passing laws, we hope these measures can help deliver real safety improving outcomes sooner rather than later for people who ride bikes across the State.”
Listen to the segment here [From 2hr 18m 40s].
Check out the lively comments section on the ABC’s post here and our Facebook post here.
