COULD the Transport Minister please explain the moronic reasoning of the following rules ( http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/Queensland-road-rules/Changes-to-road-rules.aspx)?

Sometimes changes are made to the Queensland Road Rules to help keep them current and make them easier for Queenslanders to understand and obey (clear as mud) A number of changes to the road rules for cyclists will be implemented on January 1, 2015.

Cyclists in bicycle lanes - From January 1, 2015, a cyclist will be able to choose whether or not they wish to ride in a bicycle lane where one is provided. The lane is there if they wish to use it but they will not be obliged to use it.

This change is consistent with the rules for other special-purpose lanes (for example, buses do not have to use bus lanes and drivers do not have to use transit lanes). It will take away an unnecessary limitation on cyclists using the road as legitimate road users.

Keeping left and overtaking (s129, s131, s141, s151) - You must: keep to the far left of a road that is not a multi-lane road. On a multi-lane road, you can take up any position within the lane.

Most roads around my area are single lane with a bicycle lane, and by law they must ride to the far left of the road. The far left is the bicycle lane that they are no longer obliged to use. Doh!

Are motorists now allowed to use the bicycle lane to pass cyclists using traffic lanes or do we continue to cross unbroken lines on to the wrong side of the road?

A bit of common sense, Minister. Single file at all times unless overtaking with a minimum two-bike lengths between bikes. Keep

to the left side of road at all times where there is no bike lane unless turning right. Remain wholly within your marked lane and not on the outside line. Compulsory identification plates on all bikes using the road so they can be held accountable as are motorists.

This will take away unnecessary limitations on motorists using the road as legitimate road users who have no way of reporting offenders to the police.

ALLAN SONERSON

Tewantin