A known aggressive driver takes their frustration out on cyclists who have every right to be on the road. Incidents like this are a stark reminder of the importance of recording your ride—some drivers’ behavior is unpredictable, and in cases of assault, having evidence is crucial when you need it most.
Why do you record your ride?
Prior to the various incidents (passing too close and common assault), we were riding on a 60 kph two-lane road (in our direction of travel) and entering a two-lane roundabout where the cycle lane ends.
Why I record my rides: There are too many instances of antisocial, dangerous, and/or inattentive driving where I need hard evidence of legal infractions.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I feel most vulnerable in certain lower socioeconomic areas.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road
Legal action, early life education.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
Yes, I reported it to the police. The process (this time) was straightforward.
The following is an excerpt from the Central Coast Express Advocate on September 26, 2024: link here
Robert Kevin Kinley, 32, drove dangerously close to two cyclists in his ute on a quiet Sunday morning, passing so closely that one cyclist reached out and knocked on his window. The mechanic-turned-truck driver then cut them off, pulled over, and assaulted one of the cyclists, calling them “selfish c–ts.”
Kinley’s behavior was recorded on the cyclist’s cameras and brought to police attention. He was confronted by police three weeks later and admitted his actions after viewing the footage.
Despite Kinley’s claim that the cyclists were not keeping to the side of the road, footage from the victim’s Cycliq Fly12 and Fly6 cameras revealed otherwise.
For this latest incident, Kinley was fined $1,500, convicted of the two fresh charges, fined an additional $200, and placed on a new 12-month CCO. He is required to perform 100 hours of community service and abstain from alcohol during this period.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
My advice would be to record and report offences.
Want to share your story?
We’d love to hear from you. If you would like to share your stories and experience as a cyclist please reach out to the UpRide team.