Sharing the road tips for both cyclists and drivers, to make the roads safer for both

Share the road logo

Vehicles and bikes need to share the road.

This means both drivers and cyclists need to respect each other’s space – and both need to be alert and stick to basic road rules.

“Share the road” for drivers means:

  • keeping a sharp eye out for bicycles at all times
  • double-checking for cyclists when turning left or opening car doors
  • taking extra care at intersections and roundabouts
  • giving cyclists plenty of “safe space” when passing, and do not attempt to overtake the cyclist if there is oncoming traffic until you have sufficient clear road ahead

· “Share the road” for cyclists means:

  • being visible with lights, reflectors and bright clothing
  • obeying road rules
  • avoiding sudden changes of direction
  • cycling as close to the side of the road that is safely practical
  • using a cycle lane wherever they are available
  • riding in a straight line and at least one metre away from parked cars
  • watching out for car doors opening, pedestrians, potholes, rubbish and other hazards