During the darker winter mornings, road users are reminded to take more care as visibility on roads becomes challenging.
Bayside City Council and our waste collection contractor, Cleanaway, would like to remind cyclists to take extra precaution when sharing roads whilst collection trucks are in operation.
Compared to other vehicles, trucks take longer to stop, require more room to turn, and have larger blind spots. From 2014 to 2021, 56 cyclists were seriously injured and 11 were killed in collisions with trucks in Metro areas.
To reduce injuries and fatalities of road users, the Australian Federal Government introduced new safety standards for trucks in 2023. The safety features included devices to reduce blind spots, electronic stability control, advanced emergency breaking, a lane departure warning system, better reflective markings, and side guards.
Cleanaway continue to remain vigilant to ensure the safety of users of the road.
Cyclists can play their part in road safety too. Some tips for a safer journey include:
- Stay back to stay safe.
- Use bike lights for the front and back of your bike when it is dark.
- Wear light reflectors and bright colours to improve your visibility to drivers.
- Use shared paths alongside Beach Road and Nepean Highway, particularly if you're a less experienced cyclist.
- Try to avoid being in the blind spots of trucks when cycling through intersections.
- At traffic lights, use boxes with painted bike symbols as as safer stopping places.
- Signal and be aware of the movements of other vehicles.
- Never overtake a truck changing lanes or turning.
- Avoid riding up the inside of large vehicles.
By adopting the above steps, accidents can be avoided, and we can create a safer environment.
