Time for govt to educate drivers

Journalist's cyclist rage criticised: time for govt to educate drivers

Greens MP and transport spokeperson Lee Rhiannon said today's Press Council's criticism of anti-cyclist comments in the Daily Telegraph is a wake up call for the Iemma government to do more to educate motorists on road rules relating to cyclists and how to safely share the road.

"The Greens are calling on the government to develop a public education campaign encouraging safe driving when near people on bikes," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The NSW Police should also set up a 'Cycle Safe Hotline' which cyclists, motorists or pedestrians, who witness dangerous or intimidating driving around cyclists, could ring to report number plates for police follow-up.

"In NSW there has been no education for motorists on road rules relating to cyclists or how to share the road with them. We may be the only state in Australia without a Bike-Ed program in schools.

"Education is critical as research shows NSW drivers have a very poor knowledge of some road rules, especially those related to cyclists. 'Look out for yourself' messages only reinforce the perception that cycling is dangerous and people who ride bikes should not be on the road.

"The RTA commissioned a survey of driver attitudes towards cyclists in 1995 but the results were so disturbing the report was buried and never published.

"In a copy obtained by the Greens, the report reveals 71% of drivers agree motorists do not see cyclists as having equal rights on the road. There was strong agreement, however, from 85% of drivers surveyed, that drivers should be educated to give cyclists a fair go on the road.

"The willingness of drivers to embrace education on safe cycling is something that the RTA should be milking, not ignoring.

"The RTA should be making sure people are clear on the rules of the road when it comes to cyclists, for example the long established rule that allows cyclists to ride two-abreast and more recent changes to roundabout rules.

"Improving knowledge of road rules in relation to cycling is crucial because drivers' mistaken judgement that someone riding a bike is breaking the rules is regularly translated into verbal or physical abuse that can become life-threatening.

"The RTA could institute a driver's licence renewal quiz – a cheap, simple and effective solution to improve knowledge of road rules relating to cycling. New Zealand has a successful 'scratch-it' quiz sent out with all car licence renewals, with prizes attached.

"The Iemma government should also increase its investment in cycling infrastructure. On-road facilities that legitimise cycling will help increase the number of people cycling, reduce dangers for cyclists and put a lid on cycling related road rage," Ms Rhiannon said.