Delivery cyclists want motorists to tested on road etiquette

FOOD delivery cyclists want free advanced riding courses and are calling for motorists to be tested on their knowledge of how to drive safely around riders.

FOOD delivery cyclists want free advanced riding courses and motorists to be tested on their knowledge of how to drive safely around riders.

New research shows cyclists also want more cycle lanes and better roads to help them feel safer.

The recommendations were made after food delivery company Deliveroo surveyed 3500 of its riders and discovered 81 per cent did not feel safe on roads.

DISTRACTED FOOD DELIVERY STAFF PROMPT SAFETY FEARS

FOOD DELIVERY SERVICES PUT TO THE TEST

The research also revealed better street lighting, clearer street signs and free cycle training and road safety courses from councils or the state government would improve safety for all road users.

Some 81 per cent of the 3500 Deliveroo riders surveyed said they felt unsafe on roads.

The Herald Sun has revealed food delivery riders and drivers were commonly reported to police for riding on footpaths, weaving through traffic and pedestrians, driving erratically, lacking knowledge of road laws and being distracted by their mobile phones.

Deliveroo Australia general manager Levi Aron said while free or low-cost cycling courses were available, they were not “at the level of sophistication and knowledge” that many riders had.

“Having more access to low-cost or free advanced-level defensive courses, which are designed specifically for a city, would undoubtedly provide a more positive and safe rider experience,” Mr Aron said.

“Additionally, riders have suggested that vehicle drivers should be tested more rigorously on their knowledge of driving around cyclists when applying for a driver’s licence.”

Deliveroo founder and CEO Will Shu with Australian general manager Levi Aron.

Rideshare food delivery continues to grow at a rapid rate and police highlighted inner Melbourne as the main trouble zone with roads flooded with cyclists and small ­motorised scooters.

Mr Aron backed his riders’ calls for road-safety improvements and to work with councils and the state government.

“Our Australian cities are some of the best in the world, but as our riders have told us, more needs to be done to improve the ability to safely cycle around them,” he said.

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@AleksDevic