Sharing the Streets
Bike riding is a smart and sustainable transport option for short inner city trips, which is why the number of bike riders has increased by 10% every year over the last decade and by 20% in 2009.
With bike riding booming in Sydney it is imperative that the behaviour of all road users – bike riders, pedestrians and motorists – is improved to ensure a safer environment for all.
The City is already working towards making bike riding a safer and more convenient option by introducing a high-quality 200 kilometre bike network that will include a combination of cycleway types and shared paths.
To support the infrastructure build, the City also has a range of safety and awareness messaging in the community to reinforce safe and courteous behaviour for all road users. This is in addition to ongoing on-the-ground activities aimed at bike riders and pedestrians.
A how to guide for staying safe:
When Riding
- Obey the Rules: Always follow the road rules – it's for your own safety.
- Ring Your Bell: On shared paths always give way to people walking and ring your bell early to alert walkers of your presence.
- Slow Down: Always slow down on a shared path environment and be courteous to pedestrians – they have right of way.
- Safe Speed: Be in control. Ride at a speed that will allow you to stop safely. Do you know that it can take up to six metres to stop from 15 km/hr?
- Be Responsible: Ride in your lane and when you're on a cycleway keep to the left.
- Watch Out: Look for turning cars and try to avoid the 'door-zone'. Always watch for car doors opening.
When Driving
- Follow the Rules: Obey the road signs and stay within lane markings. Do not park on or block a cycleway.
- Safe Speed: Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop safely. Do you know it can take 26 metres to stop from 40 km/hr?
- Be Aware: Slow down and watch for people walking or on bikes.
- Give Way: When entering or leaving a driveway, give way to people walking and riding bikes. Do not block a cycleway.
- Parking: Before opening your car door, look out for people on bikes. Check for people and bike riders before driving away from the kerb.
When Walking
- Be Aware: Do not walk along a cycleway. Look both ways before crossing a cycleway.
- Listen for the Bell: If you hear a bike bell on a shared path, move to the left hand side in a safe fashion and allow the bike rider to pass
- Be Predictable: Keep to the left on shared paths and walk in a predictable manner.
- Use Crossings: Always use a pedestrian crossing if nearby. If not near a pedestrian crossing look both ways and take extra care. Avoid crossing between parked vehicles. Watch for bikes.
- Be Considerate: Keep pets under control and ensure children are supervised on shared paths.