http://carinsurance.arrivealive.co.za/cyclists-need-to-remain-on-the-left-side-of-the-roadway.php
Question:
I cycle daily as a means of exercise and sometimes to do my shopping. My daily ride is 20km on a 2.5km circular public road around a bird sanctuary. I have noted that children often cycle on the incorrect side of the road; yesterday, when a man with his two children were doing this, I asked him to cycle on the left-hand side of the road, as I considered it dangerous for the three of them to come head-on at me on each circuit. (The closing speed is much higher in this case, with less margin for error should the children do something unexpected) He was quite irate and said that this was where children should ride!
My question is this – is there some new rule whereby young children should be encouraged to ride on the right-hand side into oncoming traffic? If so, at what age do they then move to the left-hand side, in accordance with the road rules?
Your comments would be much appreciated.
Answer:
There is no such rule.
The first item listed under rules of the road, per regulation 296, states:
296. Vehicle to be driven on left side of roadway(1) Any person driving a vehicle on a public road shall do so by driving on the left side of the roadway and, where such roadway is of sufficient width, in such manner as not to encroach on that half of the roadway to his or her right.
Nowhere does it state that the rule does not apply to pedal cyclists. It therefore applies to all road users moving along the surface of a public road by means of a vehicle of one sort or another.
Regards,
Gavin Hoole
Cape Town
The New K53 Manual
For Learner’s & Driver’s Licence Test Preparation
On the Arrive Alive website there are 2 sections well worth of your attention:
Cycling safely on South African roads and mountain bike trails
Cycling Safety Suggestions for South African Conditions
For insurance and safety alerts to cyclist also view:
Mountain Biking Community Warned To Be Alert Of Counterfeiters Targeting Cyclists
Bicycle and Mountain bike insurance
Mountain Biking Community Warned To Be Alert Of Counterfeiters Targeting Cyclists
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Tags: bicycles and safe cycling, cycling on left side of the road, cycling safety, rules of the road