The aim of the study was to identify the issues in Baw Baw Shire in Gippsland, Victoria, related to the safety of on-road cyclists. The study was conducted in three stages, a review of the literature, an analysis of existing data from residents of the Baw Baw Shire area and an online survey. The key safety concerns identified were; 1) poor road surfaces including potholes, unsealed shoulders, 2) driver behaviour, attitude, impatience, aggression, and 3) lack of cycling facilities. Most survey respondents had a driver’s licence and responses were mainly grouped into cyclist, (frequent cyclists) and drivers (infrequent/non-cyclists). Compared to drivers, cyclists were more likely to respond favourably to sharing the road with cyclists while driving, had more knowledge of cycling-related road rules and were more likely to report a positive attitude towards cyclists. Safety concerns specific to the Baw Baw Shire are identified and potential countermeasures that may improve cyclist safety are discussed. (Author/publisher)
Abstract