9. Cyclist issues

9.1 Provision for cyclists

Very few audited intersections had special provisions for cyclists. Consider the following factors:

• How safe is the intersection for cyclists?
• What is the existing demand by cyclists?
• Are there reasonable alternative routes?
• Are there planned projects that could include the improvement of cyclist provisions as an incidental feature?

These factors should not determine whether an improvement is needed, as all signalised intersections should work for cyclists. Rather, the factors simply help determine which should be fixed first (adapted from US Department of Transportation, 1998).

As intersections are inherently more difficult to negotiate for cyclists, it is desirable to allow for them at intersections even when there are no connecting mid-block cycle facilities.

The key planning principle relates to the provision of adequate space for cyclists.

Safety and efficiency issues

The following safety and efficiency issues can arise from missing or deficient cycle facilities at signalised intersections:

• When cyclists are not guided through an intersection, their behaviour may be harder to predict for motorists.
• When cyclists experience stress, they may be more likely to make mistakes.
• In the absence of a cycle lane, most cyclists will occupy the left-turning lane, potentially holding up motorists during a left-turn-only phase.
• It is easier for motorists and cyclists to deal with conflict points when approaching an intersection rather than at the limit lines. Truck drivers especially, when starting up, may be unaware of cyclists to their left.

Recommended treatments

• Aim for a treatment that is as far as possible suitable for cyclists with basic competence.
• All normal manoeuvres should be possible (including the option of a hook turn).
• Manage conflict between left-turning motorists and straight-through cyclists. Slip lanes are a good tool for this (and in addition use a coloured surface for the cycle lane over which left turners must cross).
• Achieve an intuitive layout so that motorists and cyclists know where they are expected to be on the road. Colouring the cycle lanes at the intersection will support this.

Figure 19 No safe and legal waiting position for
straight-through cyclists during left-turnonly phase

Figure 20 A good example of providing for cyclists
at traffic signals

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