Cyclists’ experiences of harassment from motorists pre- to post-trial of the Minimum Passing Distance Road Rule amendment in Queensland, Australia

Issues addressed - Motorists’ harassment of cyclists is a barrier to cycling. Whether the introduction of a road rule can decrease harassment is unknown. This study examined changes in cyclists’ reporting of harassment pre- to post-introduction of the Queensland trial of the Minimum Passing Distance Road Rule amendment. Methods - Cross-sectional online surveys of cyclists in Queensland, Australia were conducted in 2009 (pre-trial; n=1758) and 2015 (post-trial commencement; n=1997). Cyclists were asked about their experiences of harassment from motorists while cycling. Logistic regression modelling was used to examine differences in the reporting of harassment between these time periods, after adjustments for demographic characteristics and cycling behaviour. Results - At both time periods, the most reported types of harassment were deliberately driving too close (causing fear/anxiety), shouting abuse, and making obscene gestures/sexual harassment. The percentage of cyclists who reported tailgating by motorists increased between 2009 and 2015 (15.1% to 19.5%; p<0.001). The percentage of cyclists reporting other types of harassment did not change significantly. Conclusions - Cyclists in Queensland continue to experience harassment while cycling on the road. The amendment to the minimum passing distance rule in Queensland appears to be having a negative effect on one type of harassment but no significant effects on others. So what? - Minimum passing distances rules may not be improving cyclists’ perceptions of motorists. Additional strategies are required to create a supportive environment for cycling.