Staying safe as a pedestrian
When using sidewalks, streets, or crossing roads, stay safe by following pedestrian rules.
Pedestrian safety requires good judgement, awareness and common sense when out running or walking in public.
Things a pedestrian should do
When walking or running in public you should always:
- use traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, pedestrian refuges, and overpasses and bridge underpasses
- make eye contact with other road users to make sure they've seen you
- walk straight across roads when crossing
- watch for oncoming traffic, even while crossing the road
- always crossing the road at a crossing or at traffic lights.
Following the above tips also sets a good example for children and other pedestrians.
Things a pedestrian should not do
You should not:
- cross a road near the crest of a hill or on a bend (motorists may not see you in time)
- step off the road kerb onto the road until the traffic has stopped or cleared (traffic may not have time to stop)
- walk out onto the road from between parked vehicles (drivers may not be able to see you).
Staying safe as a cyclist
When out riding, wear the right safety equipment and keep your bike in good condition.
Remember, it is against the law for drivers to not give you enough space to ride safely on roads.
When passing cyclists, motorists must give:
- at least one metre passing distance in speed zones up to 60km/h
- at least 1.5 metres passing distance space in zones over 60km/h.
Things a cyclist should do
When riding your bike on roads, bike tracks and footpaths you should:
- slow down near schools, shopping centres and other pedestrian areas
- be aware of pedestrians, motorists and other traffic
- change lanes or make a turn on the road after you're sure approaching drivers have seen you before
- make eye contact with drivers if possible
- wear reflective clothing or something light in colour (especially at night)
- have a front and rear light on your bicycle
- use your lights when riding in the evening or in low light.
Things a cyclist should not do
You should not:
- assume that a pedestrian or driver has seen you
- leave the house without safety equipment
- wear dark clothing at night
- ride a bike without a front or rear light.
Preventing bike theft
Learn more about how to protect your bicycle from being stolen.
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