2016-07-01
Greens South Metropolitan MLC Lynn MacLaren has renewed her call for the Government to implement the one-metre rule to protect bike riders, ahead of the imminent release of a new cycling Code of Conduct.
Ms MacLaren offered her congratulations to peak cycling body WestCycle on the code, which offers a guide to best practice for riding in groups and riding alone.
She said the inclusion of advice for vehicle drivers to allow a one metre passing distance when passing bike riders was pivotal – and hoped the Government would reinforce the code by implementing the one-metre rule into law as was practicable.
“I congratulate WestCycle on their excellent work in putting together the new Code of Conduct,” Ms MacLaren said.
“Not only does the Code offer a guide to best practice for bike riders, it also goes a long way to clearing up some of the ongoing misunderstandings between bike riders and motorists. An effective wide scale public education campaign would help to get these messages out.
“The next practical step is for the Government to implement the one-metre rule.
“I first introduced my Road Traffic (Keeping Safe Distances from Bicycles) Amendment Bill during Bike Week in 2014.
“Since then, five other states have put legislation in place or are carrying out trials.
“WestCycle have done their bit, now it’s time for the Government to meet them half way and show they’re serious about bike riders’ safety.”
Related campaign: Making Cycling SaferRelated portfolios: Transport