Posted on June 22, 2010 by by Valeri

Victoria Police have become so concerned about the safety of cyclists in Melbourne’s CBD that they launched a three-day TACT funded operation to protect cyclists against careless drivers and even pedestrians. The operation started yesterday and will go until tomorrow Wednesday 23rd June.

The operation is targeting motorists driving in bike lanes, and those who illegally park or stop in heavily-used bike paths and lanes.

Victoria Police media release:

Senior Sergeant Andrew Falconer from Melbourne West police said along with pedestrians, cyclists are our most vulnerable road users.

“In the city area, cyclists are mainly hospitalised due to the opening of car doors in their path,� Sen Sgt Falconer said.

Motorists who drive in bike lanes face an on-the-spot fine of $175.

Sen Sgt Falconer said police will also be enforcing the reserved area for cyclists at some controlled intersections, commonly known as a ‘bicycle box’.

“Drivers need to ensure they stop at the first white line so that cyclists are able to stop in front of the traffic at the second white line so they are more easily seen.

Pedestrians failing to keep a lookout for cyclists will also be under the spot light with police patrolling black-spot intersections throughout the city area as part of the operation.

Intersections targeted include the busy Collins and Spring Street area which is heavily used by cyclists in morning and afternoon peak hours.

Sen Sgt Falconer said cyclists also need to adhere to the road rules including keeping left of tram safety zones which incurs a $292 on-the-spot fine, and stopping behind stationary trams while their doors remain open.

For more information visit Victoria Police media release

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