Share the road during Bike Week 2013

The aim of NSW Bike Week (14 - 22 September 2013) is to raise the profile of cycling as a healthy, easy, low cost and environmentally-friendly alternative to driving for short trips around the local community.

"Instead of getting in the car during Bike Week, grab your helmet and hop on your bicycle," said Mayor Lindsay Brown.

"Bicycle riders are legitimate road users and are entitled to use it just the same as any other road user. They have the same rights and responsibilities as those in vehicles," said Cr Brown.

Rules of consideration for sharing the road include leaving at least one metre when overtaking a cyclist in a 50km/h speed zone and providing more than a metre space on higher speed roads. After overtaking, drivers should leave at least five car lengths before merging back into the lane of a cyclist.

Cyclists can sometimes travel as fast or faster than a car, particularly in slow moving traffic, with speeds of up to 35-45 kilometres per hour, so it's important never to underestimate their speed or cut them off as they take longer to brake than a car.

Due to the increase in cycling as a mode of travel, drivers need to be alert and watch out at all times for riders especially at intersections and at night. Drivers also need to be aware that car 'dooring' is another hazard to cyclists. If a person opens up their car door and hits a passing cyclist, the person opening the door is legally in the wrong so always check rear and side-mirrors and look over your shoulder before opening your car door.

Cyclists can legally ride two abreast (side by side) on a road but not more than 1.5 metres apart. Drivers should overtake them with the same precautions they would take when passing another vehicle.

For cyclists less confident and for all children, using one of the Eurobodalla's many scenic shared paths is the best way to enjoy a ride. All shared path users should keep to the left to avoid collisions and cyclists should sound their bell when approaching pedestrians from the rear.

Cycling on footpaths is prohibited unless you are a child under 12 years or are an adult who is accompanying a child under 12 years.