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The number of cyclist crashes on SA roads continues to increase at a concerning rate –last year three cyclists were killed, while 87 suffered serious injuries and 457 suffered minor injuries, according to SA Police.
Alarmingly, cyclist serious injury and fatal crashes have risen by 34% in the last five years (an average of 90 per year between 2021-2025 versus 67 per year between 2016-2020).
With thousands of recreational and professional cyclists set to be hitting SA roads in January during the Tour Down Under, RAA is asking everyone to be patient, and reminding both motorist and cyclists of road rules to keep everyone safe.
When passing cyclists, drivers are required to give a passing distance of at least 1 metre when the speed limit it 60km/h or lower, and 1.5 metres is the speed limit is above 60km/h.
Drivers are reminded they are permitted to cross double-white lines if required to pass cyclists safely, provided the path in front of them is clear. If it’s not, hang back until there is no oncoming traffic.
Cyclists are reminded they are permitted to ride no more than two abreast, and should keep as far to the left as is safe to do so.
Where there is an active bicycle lane, cyclists must use it unless they are avoiding a hazard or overtaking another cyclist.
RAA Senior Manager Road Safety Charles Mountain said Adelaide would be on show as a tourism and cycling destination over the next few weeks.
“The Tour Down Under is a fantastic event that showcases South Australia as a brilliant state for cycling and major events,” Mr Mountain said.
“But we need to remember that cyclists are vulnerable road users, so we all need to play our part to make sure we get home safely at the end of the day.
“Drivers should be patient if they encounter cyclists on the road. Wait for a safe spot to pass so you can give the riders some space.
“Risking injury or death is not worth the few seconds that it may cost you to wait for a gap.
“Cyclists should follow the rules and be courteous, sticking to bike lanes where available and keeping to the left so drivers have room to pass.”
January, February and March are the worst months for cyclist casualties, with 28% more occurring in these months compared to the annual average.
The worst suburbs for cyclist injury/fatal crashes between 2020 and 2024 were Adelaide CBD, Norwood, Henley Beach, Glenelg North and Magill.
In the lead-up to the State Election, RAA’s election platform, Growth without Gridlock, calls on the next Government to increase funding for bicycle infrastructure, to provide more safe routes for riders.
RAA believes a $10 million State Bicycle Fund should be allocated to bike projects each year, helping to reduce crash numbers and take pressure of the state’s road network.
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