The Queensland Government will trial technology to enforce the minimum passing distance between cyclists and motorists.
Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said in a statement that the government was seeking technology to help better understand compliance with the road rules.
“We want to identify available devices that can measure the passing distance between cyclists and motorists to help keep people safe while sharing the road,” Mr Bailey said.
“Tenders are now open and we are also seeking input into the collection of video evidence and its usefulness in enforcement.”
Mr. Bailey said the rule was implemented following a successful two-year trial, which required motorists to provide one-metre distance when passing at 60km/h or less and a metre and a half over 60km/h.
“The one-metre rule was introduced to make motorists more aware of bicycle riders and encourage motorists to leave enough space between their vehicle and the bicycle,” Mr. Bailey said.
“Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q) delivered an independent report evaluating the rule and found that nearly half (43.1 per cent) of drivers agreed they were more aware of bicycle riders than they were 12 months prior.
“The report also recommended additional measures to address assist with implementation,” he said. “We are working with Queensland Police to investigate trial technology to help with accuracy in assessing passing distances.”
Since the Queensland trial and adoption of the rule, the ACT, NSW and SA have announced similar road rules and VIC are currently considering them.
“The passing distance is measured from the right-most part of the bicycle or the cyclist and the left-most part of the vehicle or something sticking out from the vehicle, such as a side mirror,” he said.
“To help educate road users of the changes, our Stay Wider of the Rider campaign was run again earlier this year, including the ability for motorists to cross centre lines when overtaking cyclists.”
Tender applications close 10 October, 2016.