Cyclist says he’s ‘a target’ for motorists
A small group of ‘‘dickheads’’ are fuelling the tense relationship between cyclists and motorists as the call goes out for people to learn how to share the road this summer.
Cyclists holding up traffic is ranked as the 11th top safety concern raised by drivers in a recent Automobile Association quarterly survey.
But Waikato police say it’s up to both drivers and motorists to be cautious and ensure everyone is safe using the road.
It’s a timely reminder as the roads around Waipa have become a popular route for competitive and recreational cyclists.
Te Awamutu Cycling Club President Marc Gascoigne has been the recipient of some nasty behaviour from motorists but admits there’s fault on both sides.
‘‘The vast majority of motorists and cyclists are great and get along without any problems. But yes, I know there are some dickhead cyclists, just as there are some dickhead motorists,’’ he said.
Gascoigne said he was particularly worried about threats made against cyclists via social media. It makes him feel as if he is an easy target each time he’s on the road, riding his bike.
‘‘Even if I’m riding alone and have clear road in front of me, I’ll have motorists roar past, leaving inches to spare,’’ he said.
Gascoigne is thankful to the majority of motorists and cyclists who do respect each other but he has advice for those who don’t.
‘‘To the 5 per cent of angry motorists and 5 per cent of idiot cyclists, I would like to say pull your head in and get over yourselves. You’re ruining it for everyone,’’ he said.
AA spokesman Simon Douglas said the quarterly survey showed drivers were worried about hitting cyclists while others were annoyed cyclists were on the road too.
‘‘But cyclists’ behaviour is not a burning issue to AA members nationwide.’’
Douglas’ advice is for all slow moving traffic, is to ‘‘pull over to the left, when it is safe and let other traffic pass’’.
Waikato Road Policing Senior Sergeant Gillian Meadows said cyclists were more vulnerable in a crash.
The onus was on cyclists to protect themselves with safety apparel and to be visible.
‘‘We ask that both motorists and cyclists share our roads and be considerate to other users at all times,’’ said Meadows.
For motorists, this includes being patient with cyclists, ensuring they are given adequate room when overtaking and indicating clearly when they intend to stop or turn.
Cyclists needed to follow the road rules, not ride in tandem or wide groups if it slows other traffic.
If any cyclist has cause for complaint against a motorist, they should note of the driver’s registration and make a complaint to police.
The same advice applies if motorists have concerns about the behaviour of a cyclist on the road.