Evaluation of The Queensland Minimum Passing Distance Rule – Overview of Results
Keywords: Cycling
ACRS
Submission Date: 2016 Conference: ARSC
Abstract
EXTENDED ABSTRACT: Minimum passing distance laws aim to prevent crashes occurring when motorists overtake cyclists. This study evaluated the 2-year trial in Queensland. Motorists were more aware of cyclists when driving on the road and most motorists and cyclists had observed motorists giving cyclists more space when overtaking than before the rule. Non-compliance rates were 12% at low speed and 21% at high speed sites. Delays in crash and injury data prevented assessment of road safety benefits but the initial findings suggest that the road rule may encourage motorists to provide more space to cyclists and as such, improve cyclist safety.