Sharing the Road with Vulnerable and Heavy Road Users
Vulnerable road users
Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders and children are vulnerable because they have little protection. Give them space and time. When passing a cyclist, leave at least one metre at speeds up to 60 km/h and at least 1.5 metres above that. Do not sound the horn unnecessarily. At crossings, give way to pedestrians, and take extra care near schools, buses and parked cars where children may step out.
Motorcycles and bicycles
Motorcycles and bicycles are harder to see and may move unpredictably. Check mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes. When turning, look specifically for cyclists coming up on your left. Do not open a car door into the path of a cyclist; check before opening.
Heavy vehicles
Trucks and buses have large blind spots, long stopping distances and wide turning paths. Do not cut in front of a truck; leave a bigger gap. When a truck is turning, stay back and do not pass on the inside. Overtaking a long vehicle takes time and clear road ahead.
Common traps
- Forgetting the 1.5 metre passing rule at higher speeds.
- Assuming a truck driver can see you in the mirror.
- Passing a turning truck on the inside.
- Missing cyclists when turning left.
Worked example
You are behind a truck signalling left at a roundabout. Do not pass on its left; it may swing wide to the right before turning and will need the full lane.
Rule of thumb
Give vulnerable users more space than you think they need, and never assume a heavy vehicle driver has seen you.