Sharing the road: Cyclists and motorists

Use hand signals when
turning or stopping

Cyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users. Be alert for cyclists on the road and drive carefully when near them.

What cyclists would like motorists to know

• Cyclists have a right to use the roads and to travel safely. Please understand and respect their needs.
• Bicycles are small and can be difficult to see, especially at night. Cyclists are also particularly vulnerable in the event of a crash. Please be aware of their presence at all times.
• Cyclists need extra room and consideration at intersections and roundabouts.
• Cyclists can be forced to ride away from the kerb by vehicles that are parked in cycle lanes. Cyclists may also be forced to ride away from the kerb to avoid hazards such as drains and potholes, or to be seen as they approach intersections with side roads. Please be tolerant and give cyclists plenty of room.
• Opening the door of a parked vehicle can knock a cyclist off their bike or force them into other traffic. Always check for cyclists before opening a door.
• Cyclists can be travelling quite quickly.

Drivers should be aware of
cyclists at all times

What motorists need to remember when sharing the road with cyclists

Hazards like parked cars, potholes, glass, litter and opening car doors may cause cyclists to veer off-line and into your path. Make sure you give cyclists plenty of room when passing them.

Slow down and wait for a clear space before passing a cyclist on a road that is too narrow to share.

At intersections, apply the same rules to cyclists that you would to other vehicles on the road. Take care to indicate turns well in advance.

You may only cross a cycle lane to turn or park clear of the lane (Never park ona cycle lane).

If you need to cross a cycle lane, give way to cyclists who are using it.

Take extra care around young cyclists.

Cyclists must follow the same
rules as other road users

Common causes of cycle collisions

Situations where cycle collisions occur include the following:

• Moving through or turning at intersections: Cyclists can be hard to see. Always look out for for cyclists at intersections.
• Opening a car door: Always check carefully for cyclists first. Don't open your door until the road is clear. Don't leave your door open for any length of time.
• Reversing out of driveways or moving out of a parking space: Always look for cyclists before moving out into the flow of traffic.
• Passing groups of cyclists: Be patient when waiting to pass. Don't drive too close to cyclists. There may be hazards on the road that you are unaware of.

What cyclists need to remember when sharing the road with motorists

Lights and reflectors
are required by law

• You must obey the same road rules as other road users.
• You must wear an approved safety helmet. It must be fastened securely, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Make sure your cycle is properly equipped with rear reflectors, and pedal reflectors or reflective leg bands. If you ride at night you will also need front and rear lights that can be seen from a distance of 100 metres if you ride at night (see the New Zealand Road Code).
• Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing, to make it easier for other road users to see you.
• Don't ride your bicycle on the footpath unless you are delivering newspapers/mail etc. If you are on the footpath keep a careful watch for vehicles exiting or entering driveways.
• You must give a hand signal at least 3 seconds before stopping or turning. Always check that your signals have been seen and understood.
• If in a group always ride in single file when passing another vehicle.

Safety tip: If traffic at an intersection is heavy, it may be safer to get off your bike and cross the road at a pedestrian crossing.

For further information, please refer to the Official New Zealand Road Code

Last updated: 7 April 2005