South Australian drivers will be fined $347 for overtaking cyclists unsafely.



Motorists must leave a gap of at least a metre when passing cyclists in zones of up to 60km/h in an effort to reduce accidents, the transport minister, Stephen Mullighan, has said.



When the speed limit is 60km/h or more, drivers must leave a gap of a metre and a half. Cars can also cross double lines to overtake cyclists if it is safe.

“All cyclists this summer will be able to use our roads knowing there will be new rules in place to enhance their safety,” Mullighan said on Friday.



Drivers who flout these rules, which come into effect on 25 October, will be fined $287 and have to pay a $60 victims of crime levy.



In another change, all cyclists will be able to use footpaths, whereas in the past only those under 12 were allowed to.



Mullighan said cyclists had to be responsible and give pedestrians space.



“This strikes the right balance between giving cyclists a safe alternative to riding on some roads, while making sure pedestrians are kept safe as well,” Mullighan said.



The changes come from a 2014 citizen’s jury recommendation, which allows members of the public to offer advice on government policy.