Bike safety

Some of the footpaths in our region are shared footpaths, but some aren’t.

white icon of pedestrian on blue gradient background

Pedestrians only

If you see this symbol, it means the path is for pedestrian use only.

You can ride on the footpath if:  

  • you're under 16 years of age 
  • you're 16 years or older and are supervising a child under 16 riding a bike. 

 

Where can you ride?

Shared footpaths

Can be used by pedestrians and bike riders, as well as wheeled toys and recreational devices such as push scooters.

Rules and safety for shared footpath use

  • Keep to the left
  • Remember the one metre rule when passing others – stay at least one metre away
  • Use your bell to warn others when you’re approaching
  • If you can, move off the path
  • Use caution around young children, elderly people and animals
  • When passing others you should slow down and stop if necessary.
BIKE LANES

You must ride in a bicycle lane if it's marked on the road and has bicycle lane signs, unless it's impracticable to do so. Cars may use them for no more than 50 metres to enter or leave the road at a driveway or intersection. 

TRANSIT, TRAM, TRUCK AND BUS LANES

But, not bus only lanes. 

Road

Bikes are also allowed to ride on the road.

Rule - 2 metres behind cars

When riding behind a moving motor vehicle, you mustn't ride within 2 metres of the back of the vehicle for more than 200 metres.

Rule - 1.5 metre beside another bike

You can ride side-by-side with another bike, but no more than 1.5 metres apart. 

You must use the marked bike lane in your direction if there's one, unless it's impracticable to do so.

Safety - avoid blind spots

A blind spot is an area drivers can’t see in the back or side mirrors of their vehicle. For trucks, this includes the area in front of their vehicle. Avoid riding in a vehicle’s blind spot for longer than you need to. Ride where they can see you.

Safety - anticipate vehicle movements

Keep an eye out for:

  • the movement of vehicle wheels
  • vehicles speeding up or slowing down
  • brake lights
  • indicators and signals to change direction.  

Where you can, make eye contact with other road users and avoid riding next to a motor vehicle for longer than you need to. 

Find out more about bike safety at https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/bicycle-riders/safe-riding

Information provided by Transport NSW.

 

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