Drivers: Watch for Cyclists as School Year Starts

Drivers are asked to be even more alert than usual with the school year starting next week.

“Kids will be out exploring their way to school – including new entrants and those who are embracing the Let’s Go message and either biking or walking to class,” says Let’s Go Project Manager Carl Whittleston.

“We want drivers to smile, slow down, stay alert and share the road with these kids who will hopefully be starting a lifelong habit of using active transport.”

Students taking to their bikes are asked to be bright, be seen and be predictable. “Give drivers every opportunity to know where you are and what you plan to do,” says Mr Whittleston.

Chief Executive Barbara McKerrow is new to cycling and has gained a wider perspective on the public use of the road.

“Cycling is a fun and healthy past-time and a realistic commuting choice, and we want cyclists of all ages to be safe and respected when out there in the traffic,” she says.

“We’ll be seeing a lot more bikes on the streets from next week with the start of the school year, so it’s important that drivers remember to give them plenty of space and respect cycling lanes, and to check the way is clear before opening car doors.”

Tips for drivers:

• If you live near a school, please do not reverse out of your driveway between 8.00am-9.00am and 2.30pm-3.30pm.
• If you are dropping your children off at school, consider parking further away and walking, scooting or cycling with them to the school gates.
• Slow down and stop at pedestrian crossings.
• When turning left, be careful to not cut a cyclist off.
• Leave the cycle lanes for those on bikes.
• Check your mirror before opening your car door.