Road Rules for Cyclists in Queensland

Cycling is a great way to get around, whether you’re cruising along for fun or commuting to work. But like any road user, cyclists have a set of rules to follow. Understanding these road rules not only helps you stay safe, but it also keeps you on the right side of the law and helps prevent accidents.

In Queensland, bicycles are treated as vehicles, which means you must follow many of the same rules as cars, plus some additional cycling-specific regulations. Here’s a quick guide to help you get familiar with the most important road rules for cyclists in Queensland.

Before You Ride

1. Wear an Approved Bicycle Helmet

Your safety matters, and wearing a helmet is not only a legal requirement—it’s a simple step that could protect your life. In Queensland, all cyclists must wear an approved helmet that meets one of several safety standards. Check for a certification sticker and ensure your helmet is securely fastened every time you ride.

If you’re carrying a passenger, they must also wear a helmet. We understand that this may seem like an extra step, but it’s vital for your safety and peace of mind. You’re allowed to attach a camera or communication device to your helmet, but always ensure it complies with safety standards.

2. Use Additional Safety Gear

In addition to your helmet, consider wearing gloves for better grip and protection in case of a fall, and glasses to shield your eyes from wind, debris, and sunlight. These small steps can make a big difference in your comfort and safety.

3. Check Your Bike

Your bicycle is your vehicle, and like any vehicle, it needs to be in good working condition. Make sure your bike has:

• At least one working brake

• A bell, horn, or another warning device

If you’re cycling at night or in low-visibility conditions, ensure your bike is equipped with:

• A white front light visible from 200 metres

• A red rear light visible from 200 metres

• A red rear reflector visible from 50 metres

These requirements not only keep you legal but also ensure you’re visible to other road users, helping to prevent accidents.

4. Store Phones and Avoid Distractions

We know that staying connected is important, but using a mobile phone while cycling is prohibited unless it’s hands-free. Listening to music or wearing headphones can also distract you from potential hazards on the road. By staying fully aware of your surroundings, you’re protecting both yourself and others.

During the Ride

1. Ride Safely

Cycling on the road requires extra care and attention. Keep to the left side of the road as much as possible, and ride single file or two abreast, staying within 1.5 metres of each other. Always maintain control of your bike by keeping both feet on the pedals and one hand on the handlebars.

2. Know the Designated Lanes

Understanding where you can ride is key to staying safe:

• Bicycle lanes are marked with a bike symbol and often painted green. While you can choose whether or not to use them, riding against traffic is prohibited.

• Road shoulders are available for cyclists, but you must give way to vehicles when merging back into traffic.

• Special purpose lanes—like bus, tram, and transit lanes—can often be used by cyclists. However, tramways are reserved for trams only.

• Separated paths and footpaths allow you to share space with pedestrians. Always keep left, give way to pedestrians, and signal when passing.

3. Understand Roundabouts and Hook Turns

Navigating roundabouts can feel daunting, but knowing the rules can help you move with confidence:

• In multi-lane roundabouts, you may turn right from either the left or right lane, but you must give way to vehicles exiting.

• In single-lane roundabouts, feel free to take up the entire lane to ensure you’re visible to drivers.

• Hook turns are another safe way to navigate intersections by keeping left and turning when it’s safe.

4. Follow Traffic Signals

As a cyclist, you must obey all road signs and signals. This includes bicycle crossing lights, which work like pedestrian signals. Stop when the light is red, and cross only when it’s green. If the light changes while you’re crossing, proceed calmly and directly to the other side.

Bicycle storage areas, sometimes called bicycle boxes, allow you to wait in front of vehicles at red lights. This gives you a head start when the light changes and improves your visibility to drivers.

5. Maintain Safe Distances

When a vehicle passes you, they must leave at least 1 metre of space in speed zones up to 60 km/h, and 1.5 metres in higher-speed zones. Similarly, maintain a safe distance when passing pedestrians, vehicles, or other cyclists.

6. Signal Your Intentions

Clear communication with other road users is key. Always use hand signals to indicate your turns:

• Right turn: Extend your right arm.

• Left turn: While optional, extending your left arm when turning is recommended when it’s safe to do so.

These small gestures help ensure everyone around you knows your intentions, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or collisions.

7. Avoid Hazards

Common hazards include potholes, loose debris, parked cars (especially in the door zone), and uneven road surfaces. These can lead to sudden swerves or loss of control, which is dangerous when sharing the road with vehicles.

Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so take extra caution in rain, fog, or high winds. Slow down, and always stay alert to avoid accidents.

Specific Scenarios

1. Riding an E-bike

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are becoming more popular, but it’s essential to understand the rules. E-bikes must adhere to motor power limits of 200W for non-pedal-assist and 250W for pedal-assist models. Remember, you must follow the same road rules as you would on a regular bike.

2. Carrying Passengers

If you’re riding with a passenger, make sure your bike is designed to carry them, such as a tandem or a bike with a child seat. Both you and your passenger must wear helmets, ensuring everyone’s safety.

Penalties for Violations

Breaking the road rules while cycling can result in fines, similar to those given to motorists, though cyclists won’t accumulate demerit points. Here are some common penalties (although these change all the time - check out the current legislation for current offences and associated fines and demerit points):

• Not wearing a helmet: $161 fine

• Running a red light: $645 fine

• Illegally using a mobile phone while riding: $1,209 fine

• Exceeding the speed limit by less than 11 km/h: $322 fine

• Riding a bicycle while not astride the seat: $161 fine

• Failing to keep at least one hand on the handlebars: $161 fine

• Carrying more passengers than the bike is designed for: $161 fine

• Failing to give way to pedestrians on a footpath or shared path: $161 fine

• Riding a bicycle without brakes or a warning device: $161 fine

• Failing to use a light at night or in hazardous conditions: $161 fine

• Unreasonably obstructing another vehicle or pedestrian: $161 fine

• Following too closely behind another vehicle: $376 fine

• Overtaking a vehicle turning left: $161 fine

These penalties are designed to ensure both cyclists and other road users stay safe. For a full list of cycling offences and fines, visit the official Queensland Government page.

After a Crash

Accidents can happen, and when they do, the legal and emotional stress can pile up quickly. Knowing what to expect can help you handle the situation calmly and confidently.

1. What to Do After a Crash

If you’re involved in a crash, it’s essential to:

1. Stop and stay at the scene.

2. Assist anyone injured, including calling emergency services if necessary.

3. Exchange contact details with the other party. If the other person refuses, report the incident to the police via Policelink (131 444).

2. Filing Insurance Claims

In the aftermath of a crash, documenting the event is crucial. Take photos, collect witness statements, and report the incident to your insurance provider. If the crash wasn’t your fault, consider filing a cycling accident claim to seek compensation for damages.

If you’re searching for the best bicycle insurance in Australia, make sure your policy covers accidents and liability, giving you peace of mind every time you ride.

3. If You’re at Fault

It’s natural to feel worried after a cyclist-at-fault accident, but the right legal advice can help you navigate this situation. At Cycle Law, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

How Cycle Law Can Help

Cyclists have a right to be on our roads, and at Cycle Law, we’re here to protect those rights. 

If you’ve been involved in an accident or need legal advice regarding traffic offences, our team, led by Principal Lawyer Emily Billau, specialises in cycling-related cases. We understand the challenges cyclists face and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process with confidence. 

Talk to a Lawyer – Reach out to Cycle Law today for expert legal assistance.