Today show host Karl Stefanovic has backed cyclists following a petition that was launched to change road rules that outraged drivers across Australia.
The Today host unleashed with a rant which was aimed at a large number of Australians who are deeply concerned about a road rule they see as creating ‘safety hazards.’
It comes as the endless war between Australian cyclists and motorists reached new heights in recent weeks.
A Change.org petition, started by Drivers For Registration of Cyclists and called for all Australian cyclists to be made to ride in a single file, has now gathered more than 87,000 signatures.
The current law allows cyclists to ride two across and Stefanovic made his opinion clear – he wants it to stay that way.
The 43-year-old TV host had some harsh words for those who signed the petition.
‘I don’t understand why they [motorists] are so angry,’ he began. ‘Cyclists are doing their own thing, they are great for the environment — making their own way to a place.
‘It is up to drivers to be patient. Drivers are the ones losing their heads here. I think cyclists are the people unfortunately bearing the brunt. Look at them, no dramas.’
Cyclists are currently permitted to ride alongside one other rider, so long as they are traveling within 1.5m of each other.
However, Drivers For Registration of Cyclists claim that the rule creates a hazard, particularly when the new rule requires motorists to leave ‘minimum gaps’ when passing cyclists.
Stefanovic disagreed and attacked impatient drivers.
‘I know what you are saying, single file, doesn’t work,’ he said. ‘A cyclist has every right to go around another cyclist.
‘I am actually sick of the war between drivers and cyclists. Cyclists don’t do anything wrong. They are fine out there on the roads and doing their bit, trying to be fit, healthy, good for the environment.
‘It is drivers out there. It is drivers out there who are impatient and who are running and endangering cyclist’s lives. I am sick of it.’
‘Sorry, just too many cyclists injured.’
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