On left turns, watch out for cyclists, e-scooters and mopeds close to the kerb in front of you or coming up on your left. Do not overtake a cyclist as you approach a junction if you are turning left, as the cyclist might be continuing straight ahead.
You should give extra space when overtaking a cyclist, as they may need to avoid uneven road surfaces and obstacles. This is particularly important on wet or windy days.
In speed zones of up to 50kmh you should keep a distance of at least 1 metre. In speed zones of over 50kmh you should keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres.
Give the space to ride safe.
Sharing the road with cyclists
Correct road positioning will allow a cyclist to move safely and competently on the road network.
Drivers should be aware that cyclists may need to move out from the normal secondary position of the road (left hand side of the lane) to a more primary position (centre of the lane) in order to:
- get the best view of the road and junctions ahead.
increase visibility for approaching traffic, especially where a driver’s view may be blocked. turn left or right, enter a roundabout, change lanes or approach a bend.
Before changing position on the road, cyclists should ‘look, signal in good time and look again’ to ensure that it is safe to proceed. Where a cyclist is not confident in taking up the ‘primary’ position, it may be safer to get off the bike and cross the roadway on foot where it is safer.
Drivers, always check and give extra space to cyclists, as they may need to change position to safely avoid uneven road surfaces and obstacles.