The NSW put out a regular newsletter where they pat themself on the back (of course) include self-praise for topics such as unpopular motorways.
In the latest edition from today - they have however included welcomed phrasing for the safe passing law. "
Drivers must give cyclists safe space"
I like it that this concentrates on the most important part (within their current strategy) to help increase the safety of bike riders as the bike bell and the bike helmet are less important when it comes to preventing collisions with vehicles.
Website:
NSW Government News: Drivers must give cyclists safe space
Fairly clear information is used
If drivers cannot pass a cyclist safely, they should slow down and wait until it is safe to do so, leaving the minimum distance.
Drivers who do not allow the minimum distance when passing a cyclists will receive a $330 fine and lose two demerit points.
To help drivers provide the minimum distance, some exemptions to the road rules apply. This includes drivers being permitted to cross centre lines when passing a cyclist, though only if they have a clear view of any approaching traffic and it is safe to pass.
There is a reference to a study - though details or access to the full study is not provided.
Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said an independent evaluation of the trial estimated a 15 per cent reduction in bicycle to vehicle casualty crashes.
This is certainly positive but again, my criticism is in the lack of transparency as it important to also back-up the information (even if it does support cycling) as the ministers for transport and department have a history or using stats but not providing details and even ignoring or refusing to provide details.
The missing link however has not been address - this is enforcement. In practical steps it means training and guidance for the NSW police to understand and actively enforce it as well as improving the process of accepting reports from bike riders.
It has proven difficult for bike riders to submit their reports and video evidence and get results as it appears that each police station will respond differently - this can include a complete rejection or it can be a failure to process. Bike riders essentially need to know:
- How can violations be reported?
- What do the riders need to do/provide - what information, details, evidence is necessary?
- What are the possible outcomes?
For example, in a serious case, a bike rider may wish to escalate it while there may be cases where riders wish to report the illegal behaviour to simply ensure that a drivers number plate is on record so that it is documented that they behave badly or a verbal warning is given with no formal traffic infringement notice. Understanding the desired outcome is crucial in ensuring that the appropriate information is provided and that the bike rider knows that the police will react accordingly.