September 2024
CAN is aware that people riding bikes are unfortunatly being subjected to higher amounts of verbal and physical abuse, risking worsened safety outcomes.
The social conditions seem to have soured significantly since the new government has come to power with some clearly anti-cycling priorities. When infrastructure is being built, such as with the Wellington Bike Network, it is understandable that the disruption can be especially difficult and stressful for some.
Poorly communicated, unhelpful policies from our leaders can escalate a permission structure for people driving heavy vehicles to direct more of their frustrations onto those riding bikes. It is a lazy, dangerous trend to see.
With the significant lack of safe separated cycling infrastructure in Aotearoa, a majority of cycling safety relies of empathy, patience, and understanding from other road users.
If the incident as happened in the past, call 105 by phone or use the online form.
Driving behaviour
You can report non-urgent incidents of poor driving where you do not wish the offender to be prosecuted
If you become involved in an incident and it is currently occurring, call 111.
Some tips
Refrain from engaging and responding. It can be difficult sometimes, but it is important to de-escalate the situation, stay safe and move away.
Take note of identifying aspects such as a vehicle number plate, the appearance of the offender and any signwriting on a vehicle.
It can help, if you have a phone to bring it out and start your video camera. Offenders can give pause when their actions are being filmed as they know it is powerful for criminal conviction purposes.
You can help reduce the likelihood of incidents happening, and empowering your evidence base if something does, by investing in a video camera. There are many options for very effective video cameras, including 360 degree footage.
Join your local cycling advocacy groups such as Cycle Wellington. Having a group of friends who understand the situation is immensely helpful for coping.
Let your city councillors and local MP know that these things are happening to you. The more that officials and politicians are reminded of the unacceptable conditions people sometimes face, the more they can build healthy empathy for people walking and cycling, and fight for better conditions for them.
How to help reduce the likelihood of harassment and violence
Demand better of elected leaders. People in positions of power - such asMayors, Councillors, MPs, and Ministers, should be reminded that usingrhetoric that diminishes the right of people on bikes to ride and be safe isunacceptable and can escalate tension.
Media - many news media outlets these days are aiming to exploit greater engagement on their platforms to make money. Unfortunately the
sensationalism can raise real-world risk levels for people on bikes. We suggest you do not engage with stories that some platforms publish. Do not share links to unhelpful stories. If you have to share - quote parts from it , or take a screen grab.
This useful guide from The Workshop is recommended: How to Talk About Urban Mobility and Transport Shift: A Short Guide
Stick to the road rules - In times when there is significant change going on, you can avoid more dangerous incidents by following the road rules. Some people who may be angry with people cycling (say, because a cycleway is going in their community or near their business) may be more prone to act violently and abusively. Keep your distance, do not engage, and try not to give them any reason to attack you.