Whether you’re behind the wheel, on a bike or on foot, the road is a shared space. Cyclists and pedestrians can be quite vulnerable as they are less visible and less protected than other road users.
Let’s go through some practical tips for sharing the road, so everyone, no matter how they are travelling, arrives at their destination safely.
Sharing the Road with Cyclists
Collisions with cyclists often happen at intersections, reversing out of driveways and when opening a vehicle door. A little extra caution can make all the difference. Here are some ways to ensure a stress-free ride for everyone:
Maintain a safe distance and speed — Take care when passing people on bikes. Hazards like parked vehicles, potholes and glass can all cause cyclists to move unexpectedly. Always slow down and allow 1.5 metres between you and the cyclist when passing them.
Stay in your lane — Cycle lanes are designed to help cyclists feel safe. Avoid driving, parking or stopping in these lanes and if you do have to cross a cycle lane, give way to cyclists before you cross.
Signal clearly and early — Indicate your intentions early to allow cyclists plenty of time to anticipate your actions.
Know your blind spots — Always check your mirrors and look over your shoulders for cyclists. This includes when driving larger vehicles, before changing lanes, opening car doors and moving out of driveways and parking spaces.
Be alert in low visibility — The weather and changes in light can cause challenges when driving. Pay close attention in poorly lit areas and around intersections as bicycles are small and can be difficult to see.
Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
Pedestrians are more at risk than any other road user, as they have nothing to protect themselves from an impact. According to the NZ Transport Agency, on average 36 pedestrians are killed and 1000 pedestrians are injured on New Zealand roads every year. Help protect those walking and crossing the road by adopting these safe driving techniques:
Be mindful of your surroundings — Scan both sides of the road while driving, as well as checking and using your rear and side mirrors frequently. People walking or running may be obscured by trees, parked cars, buses or other obstacles that can block your view.
Adjust your speed — Reduce your speed when passing schools, bus stops and pedestrian crossings. Children and other pedestrians may walk out without warning, so a slower speed will make it easier to stop.
Take care crossing footpaths — Give way to people using the footpath, such as driving in or out of a driveway, supermarket or carpark. Pedestrians have the right of way. test
Slow down around pedestrian crossings — All crossings are designed to provide a safe place for pedestrians to get across the road. When approaching a crossing in a car, you must slow down and be ready to stop. If you are in a queue of traffic, keep the crossing clear rather than trying to squeeze on the other side.
There are two main types of crossings:
- Pedestrian crossings (also known as zebra crossings) have large white stripes that go across the road. As you drive towards one, you’ll see pedestrian crossing signs before the crossing and black and white poles at the crossing. The poles have fluorescent orange disks or round yellow lights that flash at night. White diamonds are generally painted on the road before the crossing and a white limit line shows you where to stop.
- Courtesy crossing. Although not an official pedestrian crossing, a courtesy crossing provides a safe place for people to get across the road. You may find these in places like your local city centre. Drivers don’t have to stop at a courtesy crossing, however you should be considerate to people using these types of crossings.
Car Safety Features to Help You Share the Road
Modern cars are full of advanced safety features that can help you avoid accidents or lessen the severity of a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist. These autonomous or semi-autonomous safety assist systems can actively help you when you are driving by providing visual and audio warnings, or by altering the car’s performance when it detects a potential accident.
These include:
- AEB or Dual Sensor Brake Support – extra braking assist or automatic braking if an impact looks likely
- Blind Spot Monitoring – handy for turning at intersections, changing lanes on a motorway, and overtaking on a passing lane
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert – for letting you know when a vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist is coming when reversing out of a busy carpark
- Traffic Sign Recognition and Speed Limiter – perfect for staying under the speed limit
- Reverse camera and parking sensors – helpful for reversing or navigating tight parking spots
- Automatic headlamps and high beam assist – assistance in making sure you are visible to other users of the road and that your lights adjust for the conditions.
Whether you’re a cyclist, a pedestrian or a driver, we all have a shared responsibility for keeping each other safe. Next time you’re on the road, be kind, be patient and be prepared for all potential road users.
And, if you're looking to explore further what to look for when it comes to the latest safety features in a new car, download our Guide to Buying a New Car today.
