Victoria’s new minimum passing distance laws mean it is now mandatory for motorists to give bicycle riders at least 1-metre clearance when passing bicycle riders in speed zones up to 60km/h and 1.5 metres on roads with speed limits above 60km/h – or risk an on the spot fine of $330.
“Cyclists are some of our most vulnerable road users and something as simple as giving them space can make all the difference,” says Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll at the announcement of the laws on Monday, April 26.
“We appreciate the majority of drivers are doing the right thing, this isn’t a wholesale change to the rule, it simply clarifies how we are asking motorists to give cyclists safe space when passing.”
Under the updated rule, drivers and motorcyclists can briefly cross any painted lines to ensure cyclists have the safe space they need, this includes solid lines and double lines, painted tram lane lines and painted islands, but only when they have a clear view ahead and it’s safe to do so.