Drivers and sharing the road

Driving with motorbike and scooter riders

Motorcycle and scooter riders are allowed to lane filter at low speed so they may appear in places you might not have traditionally expected them.

Whilst many motorcycles and scooters are now fitted with advanced braking systems, braking distances are typically longer than in a car.

Ensure that you leave riders with enough space.

Motorcycle and scooters are typically manoeuvrable and can accelerate quickly, so be mindful that conditions around you may have changed.

Always check your blind spots before changing direction by undertaking a head check.

Try to make eye contact with riders as this can assist in determining that you have seen the rider.

Indicate when pulling out, changing lanes or turning, so riders know your intentions.

Driving with trucks

We’re reminding bicycle, e-scooter and motorcycle riders, and pedestrians about the safe behaviours when sharing the roads with trucks.

We’re also reminding truck drivers to keep checking their mirrors for riders and walkers.

Follow these tips for a safer journey.

• Never overtake a turning truck.  Trucks are big and need extra room on both sides to turn safely.
• When trucks are turning, they may not be able to see you, so stay back out of their way.
• Don’t try to pass turning trucks on either the left or right.
• Due to their large size, trucks need more than one lane to turn, please stay back when trucks are turning as they are allowed to use two lanes to safely get around a corner.  
• Be aware of truck indicators, they may be about to turn. A vehicle may need to swing out to the right to turn left, so their indicator will help you understand what they are planning to do.
• Don’t cut in front of trucks and be aware that trucks have long braking distances.  Pulling in front of a truck can be quite hazardous as it takes a lot longer for them to come to a safe stop.

Truck drivers

• Keep checking your mirrors for riders and walkers.
• Bicycle, e-scooter, and motorcycle riders and pedestrians may be nearby but hidden in your blind spots.
• Watch for riders approaching from behind when you prepare to turn left.

We are also working with the construction industry to help keep riders and pedestrians safe when travelling near worksites and around construction trucks.

Read more about our construction trucks and community safety project.

More information

For more information to stay safe on our roads go to:

• Drivers sharing the road with pedestrians
• Safe motorcycle riding tips