The Palm Beach Police division is likely to have the highest volume of cyclists on the Gold Coast roadways due to its proximity to popular hinterland and beachfront rides. This is particularly apparent in the early mornings when many large groups head out for their daily training rides. An unfortunate bi-product of all this cycling activity is the number of injuries from traffic accidents involving cyclist and motor vehicles in the Palm Beach policing division.

I conducted a review of all the reported traffic accidents where injuries were reported involving cyclists and the circumstances of those incidents. Allocating blame is not the purpose of today’s blog and it is not my intention to add fuel to the fire on which party is to blame. There has already been much discussion on this subject on social media with very few positive outcomes.

The reality is that when cars and cyclists come in contact, it invariably results in injuries being caused to the bike rider. For their own safety, cyclists must obey the road rules when riding on the roadways. Failure to do so may result in a traffic infringement notice. It also erodes their credibility on the roadways and is the cause of much angst to other road users.

Equally, motorists must demonstrate patience when passing cyclists. Motorists must ensure they allow the required one metre passing distance in 60km/h and below speed zones and 1.5 metres when speed limits are above 60km/h. Another regular issue is the opening of car doors in the path of cyclists. This practice is unlawful and can result in serious injuries being caused to both parties.

I ask all our community members to play their role in reducing road trauma on the Gold Coast and to show respect to other road users.