Road user code of behaviour
A safer road environment depends upon the behaviour and actions of all road users – motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Most people use roads to get from one place to another, often combining more than one means of transport. Everyone is a pedestrian for a part of almost every trip, even if you are just walking from the car park to the shop. Because we are different road users at different times, it is everyone's responsibility to know the road rules, be considerate and not endanger others or ourselves.
Pedestrians
When you are a pedestrian you have limited protection in the event of a crash. You should be aware that you are not as highly visible as vehicles on the road and therefore you should never assume that other road users can see you, even at pedestrian crossings. You should always walk with caution and be aware of other vehicles around you.
When crossing the road:
- Cross at marked crossings and obey the signals at intersections with traffic lights.
- If there is no crossing within 20 metres, wait for a safe break in the traffic and cross the road by the shortest, safest route.
- Do not assume drivers can see you, especially at night and in the wet. Dark clothing makes you less visible at night.
- Be predictable – don't make erratic moves when crossing the road.
When using paths (footpaths, shared paths, separated paths):
- Stay alert and be aware of other people using the path.
- Don't block the path if you are part of a group. Check behind you if you are about to pass someone or change direction.
- Wearing headphones and using a mobile phone will reduce your awareness of the people around you.
- Share the path. Keep left to allow faster path users to pass you safely. Move out of the way, to the left if possible, when a cyclist sounds their bell. Walk on the section designated for pedestrians on separated paths
- Teach children to be aware of other people using the path and keep your dog on a leash.
Wheeled recreational devices (scooters, skateboards, rollerblades)
When using these devices:
- Ride or skate at a speed that allows you to move safely around others and that is appropriate for the conditions – go slower if it is raining or the path is crowded.
- Be considerate. Give way to other people on the path and keep left unless passing. Be predictable and avoid startling others.
- Teach children to be aware of other people using the paths.
- Helmets and other safety gear will reduce the risk of injury in a crash.
Cyclists
In Queensland, cyclists may ride on both roads and footpaths, unless signs say it is prohibited. Cyclists have the right to use the road and have the same obligations as other vehicles. However, the smaller size and slower speeds often make cyclists less visible in traffic. As a cyclist you should ride with caution and be aware of the intentions of other road users around you.
When riding on the road:
- Always obey the road rules and wear a correctly fitted helmet, even when riding on paths.
- Be aware and watch what the other traffic is doing. Scan the traffic behind regularly and look out for vehicles entering the road from driveways and side streets. Ride with caution and remember that drivers may not see you.
- Be seen and use lights and reflectors. Bright clothing during the day and white at night will make you more visible.
- Be predictable and ride in a straight line at least one metre from the kerb to ensure you maintain your safety. Use clear hand signals and let others know where you are going. Avoid weaving in and out of traffic or around parked cars.
- Be especially careful at intersections and never assume drivers can see you.
- Beware of opening car doors when riding beside parked cars.
When riding on paths (footpaths, shared paths, separated paths):
- Be aware of other people on the path. Keep left to allow faster path users to pass safely.
- Be predictable and always look behind you before passing someone to ensure you are not about to cut someone off.
- Ride carefully and slow down if the path is crowded and/or when it is raining.
- Watch out for vehicles entering or exiting driveways when riding on the footpath.
- Do not threaten or startle other users by passing too close, especially at high speeds. Sound your bell to let them know you are approaching but do not assume they have heard you.
On shared paths and footpaths, bicycles are the fastest and largest vehicles. Keep this in mind when sharing paths with other users.
Motorists
Motor vehicles are the fastest, largest and heaviest users of the road. In a crash, motor vehicles will cause the most damage and pose the greatest threat of injury or fatality.
Motorists should:
- Be fair and remember to treat other road users such as cyclists and pedestrians with respect and courtesy.
- Obey traffic lights and stop at pedestrian crossings when pedestrians are using them.
- Give way to pedestrians when turning into a street.
- Always indicate well in advance.
- Give way to cyclists and be patient. Only pass a bicycle when it is safe and give them plenty of room.
- Look out for cyclists when parking on the street and opening car doors.
- Never park on the footpath. It is illegal and puts pedestrians at risk by forcing them to walk on the road.
- Take extra care at night and in the wet. Watch out for cyclists and pedestrians at night, in low light and when it is raining. They are difficult to see in these conditions and may believe you have seen them before you actually do.
- Always drive with caution, especially around schools and other places where children may be walking or cycling. Children are often unpredictable and can lack road sense so slow down around schools. Look out for children emerging from between parked cars and remember that they are shorter and more difficult to see.
