Drivers and sharing the road

Tips about how drivers and other road users can share the road safely.

How drivers should share the road with pedestrians

cycling rule - give way to walkers when turning 

  • When turning (left or right) at any intersection, except a roundabout, you must give way to any pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.

 

  • Pay particular attention when turning right.  Drivers must give way to pedestrians crossing the road they are turning into, as well as oncoming traffic (including bike riders) when turning right.

cycling rule - Give way to pedestrians when turning

  • Drivers must give way to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossing, and must not overtake another vehicle which has stopped at a pedestrian crossing. 
  • When approaching a pedestrian crossing, drive at a speed that lets you stop safely. 
  • At roundabouts be aware of pedestrians needing to cross, slow down and give them the space and time they need.
  • On a slip lane a driver must give way to any pedestrian crossing the lane, whether there is a marked pedestrian crossing or not. 

 cycling rule - give way to walkers

  • When entering or leaving a driveway, you must give way to pedestrians and bicycles on any footpath, path or nature strip you cross.

cycling rule - give way to wlakers crossing driveways

  • In a shared zone, you must give way to pedestrians 
  • You must give way to any pedestrian at or near the stop sign or line. This includes pedestrians as well as bicycles crossing in front of you.

It is important that all road users know how to identify people who are vision impaired so they can act accordingly.

People who vision impaired have less information when making decisions about where and when to cross the road.Other senses, such as hearing can assist, but do not compensate for the loss of vision.

When driving, riding a motor bike or bicycle, it is important to be patient with pedestrians and to recognise that people who use canes or dogs may take longer to cross the road. Also be aware that a person who is vision impaired may not make eye contact, or respond to visual gestures.

Helpful information

How drivers should share the road with bike riders

  • Be patient and keep your distance from bike riders, at least one metre, more if you’re traveling over 60 km/h.
  • After overtaking, make sure you are well clear of the bike rider before moving back.
  • Watch out for bike riders at intersections and roundabouts.
Bike riders can use a hook turn to turn right 
  • Drivers must stop before a bike box when stopping at a red light. Stop before the first white line, and when the lights turn green, give the bike rider a head start.

                smaller animated image advising drivers they need to stop before the boike box for cyclists

  • Drive cautiously and watch out for bike riders in residential streets.
  • Do not drive in bicycle lanes.
  • Give way to bike riders in bicycle lanes if you are turning across the lane (including slip lanes).

   image - LOOK Green Lane? Take extra care

  • Give way to anyone travelling in a lane you are moving into, including bike riders.

Changing Lane. Let others go before you go

  • Indicate when pulling out, changing lanes or turning, so bike riders know your intentions.
  • Check behind you before opening your car door, use your mirrors and do a head check. 

Car dooring image

  • View our video Checking for cyclists and motorcyclists  for more information about how to be aware of cyclists when opening your car door.

  • Doing a head check and side mirror check helps you see into your blind spot before you change lane or turn.

 Drivers check mirrors and head check before changing lane or merging to turn left

How drivers should share the road with motorbike and scooter riders

  • Motorcycle and scooter riders are allowed to lane filter at low speed so they may appear in places you might not have traditionally expected them.
  • Whilst many motorcycles and scooters are now fitted with advanced braking systems, braking distances are typically longer than in a car. Ensure that you leave riders with enough space.
  • Motorcycle and scooters are typically maneuverable and can accelerate quickly, so be mindful that conditions around you may have changed.
  • Always check your blind spots before changing direction by undertaking a head check. 
  • Try to make eye contact with riders as this can assist in determining that you have seen the rider.
  • Indicate when pulling out, changing lanes or turning, so riders know your intentions.

Travel Happy - Share the Road

Follow this link to the Travel Happy - Share the Road website  for further ideas about how to share road safely.

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