Share the Road

….. a philosophy and message that the Department for Transport has implemented and continues to support since its conception in 1997

The principle aim of ‘Share the Road’ is to increase the safety and enjoyment of cycling by raising community awareness in relation to the rights and responsibilities of all road users as they relate to cycling.

Cyclists are legitimate road users who have an equal right to be on the road and motorists have a major role in making cycling enjoyable for recreation and commuting. Cyclists must also be aware that their rights come with responsibility to obey the road rules and share the road with others.

The Department for Transport’s original Share the Road campaign ran from 1997 – 2000 , recognising that attitudinal and behavioural change requires a long-term commitment. Objectives of the Share the Road campaign are to:

• Encourage motorists and cyclists to respect each other and practice safe road behavior.
• Educate motorists and cyclists about the road rules and their legal responsibilities when sharing the road.
• Educate motorists and cyclists that cyclists are legitimate road users.

In 2000, the Department for Transport began its sponsorship of the Jacobs Creek Tour Down Under by becoming naming sponsor of the ‘Share the Road’ Young Riders Jersey, (awarded to best rider Under 23 years of age). Strategic sponsorship of this International cycling event, allows the Department to reinforce the importance of the “Share the Road” philosophy in making cycling safer in South Australia. The ‘Share the Road’ Young Rider’s Jersey sponsorship will continue in 2006 and beyond, www.tourdownunder.com.au

In July 2005, The Department launched an updated Share the Road media campaign which included TV, radio, print and outdoor advertising. The TV, radio and print advertisements focused on:

3 easy steps for Motorists:

• All road users need to be responsible and give way in accordance with the Australian Road Rules.
• Motorists need to leave adequate space between themselves and cyclists, particularly when overtaking.
• All road users need to look out for one another.

1 easy step for cyclists:

• Cyclists must obey the Australian Road Rules

For more Information

Further details on the Share the Road campaign, including the media used, refer to the Road Safety Strategy Site.

Other Cycling Information http://www.transport.sa.gov.au/personal_transport/bike_direct/index.asp