Controversial driving move by ute driver divides opinion

A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


Screenshot 2023-10-19 at 2.17.38 PM.png
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
 
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I was going for a light rigid truck license test when confronted by a double parked car in a shopping centre. Waited until it was absolutely clear and passed the car over double unbroken lines at no more than 5 kph.

I said to the examiner "I failed, didn't I?" She replied "No you didn't and I commend you on your patience" and subsequently passed. That was over 30 years ago.

But the ute driver's actions were potentially lethal.
 
55 years driving with the rule that it is illegal to cross the double white line and the WA Govt brings this in..........The safe passing distance law allows drivers to cross centre line markings, including single and double continuous white lines and painted islands, to give the correct amount of space to the cyclist, but only when it is safe to do so, and when the driver has a clear view of oncoming traffic.

Overtaking - Western Australian Government

 
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A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
Sorry but the white ute is in the wrong.
 
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I agree 100% with Mr Hore. The Ute driver displayed nothing but impatience and utter disregard for his, the cyclists and the other motorists safety. I also agree that narrow roads that do not have a designated cyclist or breakdown lane should not be allowed for use by cyclists (as a matter of safety, not as a matter of discrimination).
Having not viewed the actual motion footage I cannot comment on the truck drivers actions. Perhaps her did have ample opportunity to overtake the cyclist prior to the snap shot shown in this article, or perhaps not, however I also have respect for all truck drivers who chose to err on the side of caution in such situations.
Well said
 
The Ute driver was definitely in the wrong. Perhaps though the cyclist could have pulled over and stopped and let any build up of traffic pass before resuming their ride.
 
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A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
 
A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
For whomever believes this is acceptable, why have the double white lines at all? So dangerous, they can't possibly know who's coming the other way..
 
This Ute Driver is in the wrong. Firstly, double white lines and Secondly the crest of a hill. There was no way that he could see if anybody was coming around that corner. It doesn't matter whether the cyclist was there or not, he was passing a vehicle illegally based upon my first 2 points. I also believe that he didn't know about the cyclist and therefore didn't realise why the truck was travelling at a slower pace. With a cyclist in front of the truck, the Ute driver would not be able to see that cyclist from behind the truck. The Ute driver was just trying to get pass the truck quickly as possible even if it includes risking other peoples lives. I believe that the Police should definitely follow up on this information and ensure that the Ute Driver knows that there are consequences for his stupid and risk taking action.
It is legal when passing a cyclist to cross the line even if it is a double line
 
I live in WA and Ithink the guy driving the Ute should be crucified for his stupidity of disrespecting the law putting so many lives in jeopardy and over taking on a hill with a bend. I’m sorry 😞 but I would have raced after that idiot, pulled him over, dragged him out of his vehicle and given him a beating for putting lives at risk…..Rick
 
A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
The Vicroads website https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/cyclist-safety/sharing-the-road clearly states, under the heading ""How drivers can safely share the road with bike riders", "Drivers may briefly cross a single or double centre line to overtake a bicycle rider, but only if the way ahead is clear and it is safe to do so." Don't always go by the information that comes up first in your search engine.
 
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A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
Double white lines, passing a large truck so close on a bend is dangerous so the Ute is definitely in the wrong
 
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Being a cyclist for around 20 years now, I will say many who drive vehicles on the road are “entitled”….
Most cyclists do HAVE insurance, and most of us have other vehicles so WE do pay registration.
In my riding group we have had two of our cyclists killed..
First cyclist was killed by a “drug fuelled” semi trailer driver…now 6 years ago, and it still seems like yesterday
Second cyclist was killed by a “tradie” using his mobile phone…just 2 months ago
Enough said!!
Cyclists other vehicles may be insured and registered (therefor the rider identifiable) but on a bicycle they can not be identified and held accountable for any stupid or illegal acts. Early last year a cyclist elbowed a woman in the face fracturing her cheek and jaw bone and she was responsible for the cost because the cyclist could not be identified. ALL vehicles using public roadways should be registered (even if it is a nominal administration fee) and the riders insured.
 
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The driver of the white ute is in the wrong passing a vehicle on double white lines is against the law plus its potential risk of causing a serious accident if there was any sort of vehicle coming from the opposition direction its very likely someone would have been injured or killed including the driver of the white vehicle, what I refer to as a temporary Australian, because that's a very easy way to lose your life.
 
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Being a cyclist for around 20 years now, I will say many who drive vehicles on the road are “entitled”….
Most cyclists do HAVE insurance, and most of us have other vehicles so WE do pay registration.
In my riding group we have had two of our cyclists killed..
First cyclist was killed by a “drug fuelled” semi trailer driver…now 6 years ago, and it still seems like yesterday
Second cyclist was killed by a “tradie” using his mobile phone…just 2 months ago
Enough said!!
Knowing that one would be a fool or have a death wish to proceed. No one is "entitled" on the road, it's a privilege, not a right. The bike rider in this scenario is irrelevant, the ute driver is an idiot. I have seen many cyclists do stupid and illegal things on the road too, it's not reserved to vehicle drivers which most cyclists are as well.
 
A recent incident involving a driver of a utility vehicle has sparked an intense and divisive reaction among Aussies on social media.

Some view the driver's actions as entitled and risky, suggesting their impatience could have led to a dangerous accident. Meanwhile, others support the driver's behaviour.



The incident occurred on Ridge Hill Road in Helena Valley, Perth, as captured by dashcam footage. In the video, we see a driver navigating the road carefully, particularly when encountering cyclists while travelling in a northward direction.

The vehicle recording the footage overtook one cyclist with caution, and then it patiently followed behind a second cyclist, waiting for the right moment to pass.

After waiting for about a minute, a truck approached from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a white utility vehicle crossed double unbroken lines, overtaking both the first driver and the second cyclist.


View attachment 32650
The reaction to the utility driver's manoeuvre was completely mixed, with a wave of arguments on both sides. Credit: Facebook.



Needless to say, the video garnered a lot of attention on the internet, leading to heated debates.

Some supported the utility driver, arguing that the cyclist had ample time to overtake the vehicle. 'I usually ride in the bike lane, and when there are cars, I give them plenty of space to pass, or sometimes I go on the footpath if there is one and no one on it,' said one user.

A few argued that roads not designed for cyclists shouldn't allow bikes. Others also believed the dashcam driver had multiple opportunities to pass safely.



On the other hand, some people defended the dashcam driver, even going as far as calling the utility driver 'entitled'.

They praised the patience of drivers who showed consideration for cyclists, noting that the cyclists were keeping a safe distance. 'Nice to see drivers having patience with bikes,' they said.

Concerns were also raised about the utility driver's actions, particularly the risky maneuver over a double white line.

'That was so dangerous, putting everyone's life in danger…' commented one user.



Edward Hore, President of the Australian Cycling Alliance, strongly criticised the ute driver, asserting that they were 'absolutely in the wrong'.

Hore clarified the situation: 'By passing the cyclist, he did not break the law. But he did break the law by passing the truck because of the double white lines.'

He went on to commend the truck driver, who captured the incident on their dashcam, saying: 'He is a legend, and he needs to be celebrated. He was very aware of what was happening and where he was on the road.'

Hore further argued that the utility vehicle driver should reconsider their qualifications to hold a driver's license, as their actions were illegal and hazardous.



In Western Australia, the road rules dictate that drivers should not cross double-unbroken lines for overtaking.

However, there are exceptions: you can cross these lines to turn right at an intersection or when entering or exiting a property or a different road. Violating this rule can lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points on your license.

In contrast, overtaking is allowed in other states like New South Wales when passing a bicycle. You can also cross double lines to avoid an obstruction in the road, as long as that obstruction is not a slower or stopped car.

However, in Victoria, the rules are more stringent. Passing a cyclist on a road with double unbroken lines is prohibited.



According to VicRoads, 'You are not allowed cross over these lines for any reason unless you have to avoid an obstruction and it is safe to do so. You can't overtake, turn, or enter or leave the road across double lines.'

Key Takeaways

  • A ute driver's manoeuvre to overtake a cyclist along a busy Perth road has divided opinions online.
  • Dashcam footage shows the driver crossing double unbroken lines to overtake the cyclist and another vehicle, an act labelled by some as 'entitled' and 'dangerous'.
  • The president of the Australian Cycling Alliance, Edward Hore, condemned the ute driver's actions, stating they broke the law and put lives at risk.
  • Under WA's road rules, drivers are prohibited from crossing double unbroken lines to overtake, with the offence punishable by a $150 fine and three demerit points.

Members, what do you think of the incident? Who do you think was in the right? That said, we also urge everyone to stay safe on the road!
The Ute driver s definitely in the wrong. Crossing double unbroken lines is illegal. Doesn't matter about bicycles or a truck being in front of him, still breaking the law.
 
Double lines, end of any entitled supporters of the person behind the wheel of the ute. When did double line NOT mean don't cross?
 
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