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.

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!

 

[Observer]

Impatience kills people. Some believe it is their god given right to do anything like they like once they get a license.
When spotted or recorded in situations like this, perhaps a fine, suspension or review is in order as to their driving mentality.
It's not the driving skill, as all of us that have a license are qualified to drive. It has to be the mentality.

 

[LMW1]

No-one has picked up that the Ute driver has over taken close to a bend in the road and what appears to be a crest of a hill. No one can see what may be coming around that bend. Yes, double lines are a no no, as well - all in all, a potentially dangerous situation

 

[Robbo3006]

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!

CyclistS cause more accidents than any other road user, they're inconsiderate entitled and don't pay rego, more importantly, don't pay insurance, get off the roads. Especially 2 lane roads, you hold up traffic and endanger your own lives.

 

[Pinky300]

The cyclist should NOT be on that road. Full stop. End of discussion!!!

 

[nire]

No-one has picked up that the Ute driver has over taken close to a bend in the road and what appears to be a crest of a hill. No one can see what may be coming around that bend. Yes, double lines are a no no, as well - all in all, a potentially dangerous situation

I agree, crossing double lines so close to a bend is stupid, regardless of the cyclist.

 

[benaxb]

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!

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.

 

[gamiry]

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!

did anyone realise the ute driver was headed to a blind corner / bend. Too bad if a car was coming in the other direction

 

[gamiry]

CyclistS cause more accidents than any other road user, they're inconsiderate entitled and don't pay rego, more importantly, don't pay insurance, get off the roads. Especially 2 lane roads, you hold up traffic and endanger your own lives.

Aren't you a charmer. Who made you God? Please look at the stupidity of the ute driver. An accident waiting to happen. Using commonsense and respect I drove from age 18 to 80 and had one smash when a woman crashed into me. I set my kids and grandkids a challenge,,,,no fines and no accidents for 25 years. None could do it. I gave up my car when I thought the time was right and gifted it to a young man who was learning to drive. I must admit I should have earned a few speeding fines when driving to cat shows in Brisbane at around 2.30am but I didn't get one. Lucky me.

 

[Iggydi]

The amount of drivers that do this now especially in Queensland is unbelievable. People are so impatient these days. Is that the only road where the bike rider can get to his destination? If yes he has to be on that road, if not, shame on him, especially how narrow and dangerous the road is.

 

[Observer]

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.

My point exactly

 

[Observer]

CyclistS cause more accidents than any other road user, they're inconsiderate entitled and don't pay rego, more importantly, don't pay insurance, get off the roads. Especially 2 lane roads, you hold up traffic and endanger your own lives.

Sounds a bit like you might be trying to stir the pot between cars and cyclists. Both have a right to be on a road unless signage indicates otherwise.

 

[Observer]

The cyclist should NOT be on that road. Full stop. End of discussion!!!

Sounds a bit like you might be trying to stir the pot between cars and cyclists. Both have a right to be on a road unless signage indicates otherwise.

 

[Iggydi]

CyclistS cause more accidents than any other road user, they're inconsiderate entitled and don't pay rego, more importantly, don't pay insurance, get off the roads. Especially 2 lane roads, you hold up traffic and endanger your own lives.

I have seen cyclists that are polite and do the right thing. I have seen drivers that do the right thing and I have seen both, that feel they are entitled to all the road. I for one don't like the cyclists as I nearly got run over twice by inconsiderate cyclists while I was crossing a major road at traffic lights and I had the green man. One of the cyclists I saw the colour of his eyes, thats how close he came to me after ignoring red lights. But I can't blame the cyclist in this instance. The Ute was in the wrong 200%

 

[Lyndal Wheeler]

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!

I agree with the statement about cyclists not being allowed on roads without a bike lane. I have been made late to an exam by doing the right thing and waiting for a large group of cyclists on a country road of 100 km pH speed with no shoulders. It is dangerous for them and for motorists also, trying to avoid them. They are a hazard and there are plenty of places for them to ride without endangering themselves and others.

 

[Veggiepatch]

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.

 

[Bullwinkle]

CyclistS cause more accidents than any other road user, they're inconsiderate entitled and don't pay rego, more importantly, don't pay insurance, get off the roads. Especially 2 lane roads, you hold up traffic and endanger your own lives.

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.
Our cycle club has the policy that every rider must be insured!!
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!!

 

[Aussie all the Way]

The ute driver is 100% in the WRONG it is illegal to cross DOUBLE WHITE LINES at any time, end of story.

 

[Marvin Kombi]

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.

 

[BillW41]

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!

In SA it is permitted to cross double lines to overtake a cyclist, provided it is safe to do do. The ute driver is completely in the wrong, exhibiting the impatience which causes so many collisions.