Stay Safe on the Road: Rules for Passing Cyclists

Do you know the passing rules for cyclists in your area?

Cyclists and vehicles share the road, but there are strict rules to follow when passing cyclists. Let’s take a closer look at these rules and why they’re so important.

The nationwide rule for passing cyclists is commonly known as the ‘1 metre rule.’ However, it’s important to note that the actual distance required may vary depending on the speed limit. For speeds up to 60km/h, drivers must allow a minimum distance of 1 metre (1m) between their vehicle and a cyclist. When the speed limit exceeds 60km/h, the required distance increases to 1.5 metres (1.5m).

In some jurisdictions, compliance with the minimum passing distance rule is not always perfect. In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), a study conducted by the University of Adelaide found that nearly 10 percent of drivers did not comply with the minimum passing distance. Shockingly, improper passing incidents were more common on roads with speed limits above 60km/h.

To ensure safety in the ACT, the police advise drivers to wait behind cyclists if it’s not safe to pass and only proceed when the road conditions change. Violating the passing rules in this jurisdiction can result in a $292 fine and two demerit points.

In New South Wales, if you find yourself in a queue of traffic behind cyclists and feel pressured to overtake, it’s crucial to wait for a safe opportunity. It is legal to cross single and double white lines to pass bicycles, but only if you have a clear view of approaching traffic and it’s safe to do so. Offenders in New South Wales could face a $352 fine and two demerit points, with a maximum court fine of $2200.

In Victoria, failing to follow the passing rules can result in an on-the-spot penalty of $330 or a maximum court-imposed penalty of $1652. The Victorian Transport Accident Commission (TAC) emphasizes that the penalties for improper overtaking or passing are the same as those for overtaking a vehicle without leaving a sufficient distance. However, Victorian drivers are allowed to cross the centre markings, such as solid double white lines or painted islands, to overtake a cyclist if it’s safe.

Queensland follows a similar rule, requiring a minimum gap of 1 metre for speeds up to 60km/h and 1.5 metres for speeds exceeding 60km/h. Motorists in Queensland can cross white solid or double white lines or painted islands to pass a cyclist or personal mobility vehicle. Failing to give the minimum distance can lead to a hefty penalty of 3 demerit points and a $431 fine, with a maximum court-imposed fine of over $5,700.

In Western Australia, drivers who fail to comply with the 1 metre or 1.5 metre passing laws can face a fine of $400 and four demerit points. South Australia explicitly states in its Road Users Handbook that cyclists require adequate space on the road to ensure their safety. Violating the passing rules in South Australia can result in a $287 fine, $60 victims of crime levy, and two demerit points.

Tasmania has the same passing laws as other states, allowing drivers to cross centre lines, straddle lane-lines, and drive on painted islands to overtake a cyclist safely, provided that there’s a clear view of approaching traffic and it’s safe to do so. Incorrectly passing a cyclist in Tasmania may lead to a fine of up to $159.

The Northern Territory emphasizes that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other road users. Drivers in the Northern Territory have several exemptions when passing cyclists, such as crossing over lane lines, driving to the right of the middle of the road, and driving on or over continuous lines around a painted island, but only if there’s a clear view of approaching traffic and it’s safe. While there isn’t a specific fine for not following the passing rules, driving without due care can result in an on-the-spot fine of $150.

It’s crucial to remember that this information is not intended as legal advice, and it’s always best to check with the relevant roads authority in your state or territory to ensure you’re aware of the specific rules and penalties in your area.

• The ‘1 metre rule’ applies nationwide, with a distance of at least 1m required for speeds up to 60km/h and 1.5m for speeds higher than that.
• Different jurisdictions may have slight variations in the rules.
• Penalties for not following the passing rules vary across states and territories.
• It’s crucial for both drivers and cyclists to be aware of and obey these rules to ensure road safety.

Following the rules for passing cyclists is essential for ensuring road safety. With variations across different jurisdictions, it’s important for both drivers and cyclists to be aware of and obey these rules. By giving cyclists adequate space on the road, we can help prevent accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.