The police are just as bad as the driver by turning a blind eye to this. Now the driver knows he can get away with endangering others' lives For now, get a bit of rusty construction rebar and stick it to the back of your bike, slightly longer than your handlebars. Anyone that drives too close will royally fuck their bodywork up and it'll be their fault. Just be careful when filtering
"As I have stated repeatedly, unless you are knocked off your bicycle and therefore the victim of a true collision,this type of complaint will simply continue to be filed." Let me translate this into plain English for you: 'Trying to run people over and recklessly endangering lives is legal far as far as we're concerned, as long as your victims are cyclists, and they don't actually die or something.' Can't believe how sad a state of affairs it is in that police department...
I wish it was only that one department, most cops stopped their threatening and intimidating behaviour towards me when they learnt in was recording their phone calls. This cop is such a power tripper that he even continued in signed letters. Even more shocking is the scum that is in charge of him do not want to change the disgusting culture that goes right through the New Zealand Police Force
i guess having good bike handling skills is a disadvantage. next time just fall off the bike on purpose so the police will be able to do something. full of bullshit. if a person tries to assault you but he didnt injure you, the police will "file the case"?
Failing to keep left? *Road positioning* Riding further out from the edge of the road is safer, faster, and helps prevent motorists from cutting you up. Never hug the kerb. That's rule one of road positioning on a bicycle. You need to be further out into the road, sometimes right in the middle of the traffic stream. Less assertive cyclists worry that being further out may put them in the way of the traffic. It won't: you are the traffic. Being in the traffic stream helps you to get treated like traffic. *Reducing risk* It can feel safer to ride in or near the gutter. It isn't safer. It vastly increases the chances of drivers buzzing past you with inches to spare. You'll have to contend with drains, cambered surfaces, and debris like broken glass that has been 'swept' to the edge of the road by the action of car tyres. And you're less likely to be seen at all by drivers. The commonest type of car-cyclist collision is the 'Sorry, mate, I didn't see you' variety. You must register in a driver's field of vision. You'll do that best by cycling where they are looking. Drivers look where their vehicle will be in the next few seconds, which is to say: ahead of them. They pay much less attention to people and objects in their peripheral vision. Initially, you may feel exposed exposed riding further out from the kerb. But it's very rare for cyclists to get rear-ended by drivers. Being safe is being seen - and forcing drivers to react to your presence. *Controlling your space* Drivers are obliged by the Highway Code (Rule 163) to give you 'at least as much room as a car' when overtaking. Let that sink in: at least as much room as a car. That means that they should pull out, cross the central, dashed white line, and pull in again. By riding further out from the edge of the road, you force following traffic to overtake you properly instead of squeezing past dangerously close. Are you inconveniencing anyone? Only those drivers who would not have overtaken you safely in the first place. As a rule of thumb, your distance from the kerb is the same distances that drivers will give you when overtaking. *How far from the kerb?* You never want to be closer than 50cm from the kerb. Often you'll be a metre out, sometimes more. The key factor is not so much the edge of the road as the location of the traffic stream on that road; that is, where cars are actually driving in that traffic lane. There are essentially two cycling positions to choose from, relative to the traffic stream. One is the centre of the traffic stream - that is, the centre of the lane, rather than the centre of the road. You'll sometimes hear this called 'the primary position', but it's easier to think of it as 'taking the lane'. The other position is about a metre to the left of the traffic stream, so long as that doesn't bring you too close to the kerb. Sometimes called 'the secondary position', you can think of it simply as 'not taking the lane'. *When to take the lane* If you can keep up with the traffic, such as around town, it's safest to take the lane. It's also the position to adopt when you want to dissuade drivers from doing something stupid, like cutting you up. Here's a non-exhaustive list of situations when it's best to take the lane. • Approaching a pinch point, such as pedestrian island in the centre of the road. • Approaching and negotiating a roundabout. • Approaching Give Way markings. • Approaching a side road, to prevent drivers from 'left-hooking' you and to help drivers on the side road to see you. • Approaching traffic lights. • Approaching a blind corner. • Negotiating a junction. • In queues of stationary traffic. • Overtaking parked cars. *When not to take the lane* If you're not confident in taking the lane, especially when simply riding along, don't feel that you have to. If the road is busy and the traffic is moving faster than you can, either because it's a fast road or a steep hill, you're often better not taking the lane. This is a courtesy to drivers, enabling them to overtake you more easily. Your safety is paramount, so you should not feel pressured not to take the lane. If a driver pips his horn at you, relax in the knowledge that he has seen you. *Changing positions* Unless you're taking evasive action, any change in position should be gradual - particularly when moving out to take the lane. Check back to see where any following traffic is, then gradually move into your new position. If you check back early enough, you may not need to signal to change your position within a traffic lane. Signal when you need to communicate your intention to drives who are closer. Don't assume that you can move left to the secondary position without checking behind you. Around town, another cyclist or a moped rider may be about to 'undertake' you. *Specific to cyclists* Cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast, although most drivers are not aware of this. On fast or busy roads, it is courteous to single out to make it easier for drivers to pass. Cyclists are allowed to stop on double-yellow lines. Again, drivers may be unaware of this. Finally, don't tailgate motor vehicles. It reduces your visibility - in both senses - and bicycles can't stop as fast as cars, so you risk rear-ending a car if it stops suddenly. (cyclescheme uk) *Cyclists have a right to claim the lane* It may come as a surprise to most drivers but cyclists have as much right as drivers to take up the entire lane. You will often see cyclists riding side-by-side, and you, as a driver, may think they’re being selfish by doing so. But the fact is the cyclist is actually reducing the risk of having an accident; it’s the safest way for them to cycle, particularly if there’s a blind bend, a narrowing of the road, a high risk junction, pinch point or traffic lights ahead. Cyclists should never cycle in the gutter as it gives no room for avoiding obstacles and leaves no room to fall if an accident occurs, increasing the risk of falling into the road and potentially under the wheels of a vehicle. *It’s your responsibility as a driver to avoid hitting the cyclist, not the responsibility of the cyclist to avoid getting hit by you.* (Derbyshire police)
So in effect they will only charge someone who commits a traffic offence if a person is knocked off their bike? I bet if it were a policeman on the bike that they would have counted it much more serious? Clods.
The Auckland Road Traffic Manager offered to meet me about this shocking decision, and how I felt about being told I was wasting Police time, when I said a wanted to bring someone along with me he then changed his mind! It is concerning as the Police in NZ are known to beat the public to convince them to shut the I=uck up. I can see no other reason for the cop changing his mind other than it interfered with the plan he had for "convincing" me I was wrong about the Police.inaction.
That is horrendous. Even if your riding position was wrong, which it is not, this is still an attempted assault that could have resulted in serious injury. As person who wants to visit NZ, police actions like do the exact opposite of promoting tourism. Shameful police behavior.
Once again I'm appalled at the actions of this motorist. Absolutely unacceptable. What the hell is he/she thinking? Straight out intimidation of the lowest form. People need an education and the Police need to "throw the book" at idiots like this. His actions could easily have resulted in another needless death.
Dude, I'm glad you were able to stay upright. When that was done to me it snagged my handlebars and spat me onto the pavement in front of a shocked woman in a Prius who - thankfully - was able to stop before she ran me over. That could have ended badly in so many ways. Definitely take it to the papers if they don;t ticket the guy. There is no way that was an accident.
I loathe to suggest this but a good hefty D-Lock makes for a great acoustic attention grabber when applied firmly to the side of a vehicle... assuming it is somewhere reachable that is.
Sadly this is the reality of Policing in New Zealand. I was fortunate to get a reply! The Cops are more likely to say a complaint was "lost" than actually reply, let alone do the job they are paid to do.
There is little doubt any cop would stand for being treated like this, and I am sure if a cop called this in straight away (as I did) it would be unlikely the driver would make it to his destination, and be very lucky to keep his licence.
Wow, I can't believe you managed to stay upright! I would have fallen over from the fright of it. The police will have to be totally useless to ignore that one! Some sort of criminal charge is warranted there as a bare minimum.
The Police are still dragging the chain with replying to me, I have to give them the rope they need before going further. Yes, I did see the indicator, it would be interesting to know where the driver lives (or know where he was going) to see if that adds to the way this looks.
if you ask me, thats reckless endangerment, and or reckless operation of a motor vehicle. the fact that the cops did nothing shows once again them not protecting the public at large.
It beats me, that along with the admission of saying the same thing previously, and saying he will continue to disregard future evidence of dangerous and careless driving! It begs the question, "how can his supervisors be allowed to keep their jobs too" Too much public money is being wasted employing Police that refuse to Police the roads.
20 working days the police have to respond if they have not passed on enquires to someone else in regard to the Official information's act, or the privacy act. but the agents do not appear to respect NZ legislation from my experience. They may give you the silent treatment, or tell you "You have no right to enquire, you can just go away", or "We do not have the privilege of time to answer questions.", or will call you derogatory names if you are a requester.
The Metro (a free London daily) this week had the front page headline "Put Cyclists First". This was the day after multi-olympic medal winner Bradley Wiggens and his coach were both in separate road accidents. The Times has been running it's #cyclesafe campaign for the last year. So, there is a positive interest.
Surely that is assault, plain and simple. If he wasn't in his car and he shoulder checked you while you were cycling then you can press charges, I don't see this being any different. Good luck!
The story behind so may cameras: I only felt I needed one (rear) to provide the Police with enough evidence of unsafe passing, but they (it was actually the cop who wrote the letter in this video's description) said they needed a front view too, so I bough another, again they (he) said this wasn't showing a clear enough view. Finally at three cameras this cop said don't report any dangerous drivers unless they actually hit you, after being hit this cop then said only report dangerous drivers if they injure you when they hit you, I am sure we can all guess Craig Cooney's next move! but if they do actually kill me, how will I report the driver? still at least Craig Cooney will not have to do any work. Welcome to Policing New Zealand style!
***** sounds like the Minneapolis cops. I gave them the name, address, and phone number of the person who robbed me because i personally knew the person. They basically told me to fuck off and I wasn't worth their time. I guess it's global!
***** Write a formal complaint about this officer, include all your communications, and add what you just said. This is unacceptable policing, no matter where you are
Not worth it, the time I made a complaint about Police attitude, the complaint was "lost"! I quit, heading home to the UK. NZ has little to offer, there are a few nice views, but no history, culture, or law. They talk as if there is, but it is just so boring, Looking forward to seeing more of the UK and Europe again, without spending a small fortune getting there.
because I have been taught that especially at junctions/intersections that it would encourage an incompetent driver to try to squeeze through a gap where there isn't space to give the safe (NZ recommended minimum 1.5 meters) clearance required of a motorist passing a cyclist.
It wouldn't feel right, I known it is Police ignoring complaints again but that story is disgusting. The Police claiming no one came forward, now at last count there are 4 complaints for people that did come forward, it makes you wonder if the Police have family that are being accused. Heads need to roll, but I am sure they won't
I don't know the laws in NZ, is there really one requiring cyclists to keep left? Or does the police officer not know the law in addition to not understanding the definition of the word "collision". He certainly go the condescension down pat though.
+Daniel Brotherston There is no law requiring cyclists to keep any further left than any other vehicle in NZ is. Official advise is for cyclists to move further right where lanes are too narrow to be shared and still allow for the NZ Road Code recommended safe clearance that is a minimum of 1.5 meters. An unsafe pass in NZ can result in anything from Unsafe Passing, to Dangerous Driving, dependant on the Police Officers "judgement", naturally deliberately hitting a cyclist (in theory) should result in one of the more harsh penalties available to the officer. This is not the first time Craig Cooney has failed in his duties, what is more concerning is the complete incompetence of Inspector R James, and the degree that New Zealand Police are struggling to find suitable employees. The willingness of NZ cops to invent their own laws to excuse working for a living is sickening, especially so given the number of lives their actions have cost.
+HelenaRG71 The Police are definitely able to do a lot, there are many options available, as on the odd occasion demonstrated by neighbouring Police Districts with the same rules. This pass could have resulted in anything from Dangerous Driving to Unsafe Passing.
Maybe people of New Zealand should each report this video to the police, then C.M Cooney might understand that this kind of driving is not acceptable, and could have very easily ended in an accident. But I guess C.M Cooney is a stand alone policeman, judge and jury, who is actually just a traffic cop.
What is crazy to me is how they will take cases to a Jury trial with no evidence (just on one persons weak statement), yet when there is evidence they do not want to charge someone with having committed an offence. Cooney must support this behaviour as lawful, & moral conduct. Hit their cop cars like this,or them, & watch the 'hypocrisy'.
What do the rules and guidance in NZ say about cycling and driving? Are you encouraged to cycle in the middle of the lane (as we are in the UK)? If so, then there must *surely* be a compelling case for redress against the police - their response looks like a complete dereliction of duty by the police. Whether it's the IPCA or some other body.
NZ rules say cyclists can claim the lane to avoid close passes. A Council run training course I took shortly after this confirmed I was in the correct passition in the road, and that taking the centre of the lane through intersections (junctions) is recommended best practice. I am still, after all this time, trying to get the Police to acknowlegde the New Zealand Road Code and the fact I was in the correct possition in the road. I have to give the Police the chance to correct their mistake before going to the IPCA
lockudlad As the law stands the rules about my position in the road have no importance, the overtaking driver is legally required to pass safely regardless of my position and the fact that my position in the road was confirmed to be correct. Unfortunately New Zealand Police are not only lazy incompetent scum, but anti anything that anything they don't have fun doing.
You have 3 cameras, 30 odd clips and *555 on speed dial. The popo will be sick of you calling them and you wont be happy until the people paying road taxes are told to stay at off the roads while you have a ride.
Yes 3 cameras, the Police said one, then two were not showing the incidents in enough detail from them to grasp that was happening. *555 on speed dial? I think I can remember that number. If the Police don't like doing their jobs they should quit, and if they can't do their jobs they should be fired, we pay a lot of money for Policing, the least they could do is earn their pay. Why would you thing I don't want to share the roads with motorists when I ride a motorbike and drive a car, your mind works very strangely. Passing cyclists is not remotely difficult you know, I have passed hundreds, and not once behaved as badly as the drivers in my videos. ruclips.net/video/rq0FXMFpJDI/видео.html ruclips.net/video/Ev7f7BBwVwI/видео.html ruclips.net/video/8dze_FRGXsc/видео.html I enjoy driving and riding motorbikes, and have no problem sharing the roads with careful and competent road users. What would make you think I wouldn't be happy sharing the roads with careful and competent road users?
It's disgusting how the Police in ALL countries deal with these types of drivers. Perhaps the law isn't there to neccessarily deal with the driver if you haven't been knocked off/injured (but I'm sure it is), regardless they are clearly a danger and need a 'talking to' which old fashioned policing would have no problem with, and has a high probability of stopping the driver from doing it again.
I understand the whole road positioning , dominating and controlling a lane but I tend not to do any of that I cycle and drive and when I'm among fast moving traffic I try to keep as much left as I can without being in the gutter but it's just my opinion
Holy crap! Did you miss your proctology appointment and the doctor came after you? that's not careless driving, that showed highly intentional behaviour. Can't you sue the person under civil laws rather than let the police deal with it?
I messaged the police saying how disgusting their response is and if they are truly as shit useless as you say they are, I'm not holding my breath for a reply short of abuse and defensive messages, IF I get a reply at all.
This cyclist is an antagonist trying to bait motorists. Why else would he have 3 cameras? My guess is that he is never happy unless he is complaining about being right and having other s doing the wrong thing. At least he has all the right gear, outfit & accessories to knock seconds off his Olympic time as he sits at the lights posing like a peacock.
An antagonist because I won't take the crap you would because you don;t have the balls to stand up, haha sure, lets say I am the one with a problem, so you don't feel quite as gutless as you do most days. Next time you are in a bank, ask them why they are antagonising you with their cameras, please let you know how you get on, I love a good laugh.
Damien Percy In all honesty I do laugh at the way I look in my cycling clothes, so fare comment. Any response to me thinking you are gutless, or are you taking that one on the chin? O and please remember to get back to me about the bank thing aye :-)
Northern Cyclist TVL I ride. I have a GoPro. But I dont sit in the middle of the lane because that's just arrogant. I also dont wear lycra just like the tens of millions of Europeans & Asians that manage to ride without looking like a peacock posing for a new mate. Dont tell me you dont shave your legs (where do you stop) dont tell me you dont love to "accessorize" . Dnot tell me you dont love to pose. in the mirror and in public. Tosser
Damien Percy Send me a link to one of you videos, maybe your approach to cycling is better than what is taught by NZ cycling instructors etc. it may just be that you are the best, I would guess you already recognize that you are but your superior knowledge may be just what we need to be safe. Sorry, I am going to have to crush your fantasies, I only shave my crack sack and back, and wouldn't dream of shaving my legs. (o and I shave my head and face but I get the feeling that isn't where your interests lie) I don't understand what accessorizing is, so can't help you on that or the mirror posing thing, I think I must be in a different demographic to you (honestly I am not judging, each to their own. Looks like you could be struggling with answering questions by using your words, and you are showing some frustration, try not to let the majority opinion of safe cycling practice get in the way of you sharing your videos of your own view of things. Just try replying with videos if it helps, the bank video camera one sounds like a great one to start with. All the best.
Sadly, there will come a day, when YOU (the cyclist) will need to have a freshly dipped paint brush (ie: one with a paint-can spray-squirter fitted into the brush-head itself, to ENSURE a nice bright GREEN wipe, gets drawn all along the side of such offending vehicles, then IT "truly" won't matter, if they are NEVER charged with any offence, as that HUGE UGLY GREEN STRIPE, will also "include" a good brand of heavy duty paint-stripper, rendering the car's entire paint job, a renewal event, at the very least.)
C.M. Cooney Acting Sergeant E961 Traffic Investigation Unit obviously does not know what his role is in the police service, and gets paid. Wow. The police in the UK would have stopped that guy for dangerous driving. And the footage alone would have had dire consequences to his license.
Send a copy to the Minister of Police, & CC Cooney's superior, IPCA, & the Herald. Did you notice the vehicle was indicating to turn, then in spotting you I believe turned off the indicator to target you. 'You' always pays. Notice how banks, council, & police are always 'us', 'we' while the customer, client, civilian is 'you'. 'You' always pays.
next time: drive to the next traffic light and destroy his mirror or kick to the car... only with bashing you can show the mistakes of the car driver - same in germany... only stupid cars !!!
Try contacting Jacinda Ardern Labour police spokesperson. She may bring it to the media's attention, just as she is talking about the 'Roastbusters' at present.
1st of all R U OK m8! that would have put the crap up me. 2nd what is the Police going 2 do about this & 3rd. the driver tried to kill U, attempted murder... take the footage also to a councillor or something, media, to highlight how bad it is for cyclist out there in NZ :(
I think you need to get your politicians involved. At the moment, with regard to the poor driving skills of your motorists, you have the most inept police force in the world. The thing is, this guy is using his one ton vehicle as a means to intimidate. A weopon. This guy is a bully and yet your legal system requires you to be seriously inujured before they do anything to address the poor driving standards and agressive behaviour. Time you and your fellow cyclsits started some form of political action group to get the law changed because at the moment your police force is the laughing stock of the western world. Luck
I had an MP (Julie Anne Genter) enquire about this on my behalf, the story they told her was very different to the signed letter I have from the officer that actually handled the case. I have been waiting a long time for the Police to explain this to me. The Police here are well known for muddying the waters then stalling and later saying the case is now to old to reopen, all so they can protect their own (rather than the public)
But if they put a letter in writing, there is nothing that they can do to deny that. So your cops lie to all concerned to cover their own. You still need to hit your MPs harder for action. People only have the power that you give them and MPs are very aware of their precarious position. Keep pushing, not just for yourself but all the other cyclists that the police will not be helping in the future unless you do something. Luck
MuppetAlex1 I am still after all this time asking for answers from the Police, it is currently with the Cop in charge of Auckland region traffic, I also asked why the Police are so slow at replying. I don't know if the extra question was too tricky, or he thought he would make me wait even longer just to prove he can do what he wants. but the end result is I am still waiting. It could just be that the cop I asked just happened to go on an unusually long holiday it wouldn't be the first (or second) time I have be unlucky like that!!!
They didn't, and Julie Anne Genter (Green Party MP) agreed with the cop that unless I was knocked off "and" injured, not to bother reporting Dangerous Driving!
I'm a New Zealander myself, and I'd be happy to file an IPCA complaint if you would approve? The link to do so is: www.ipca.govt.nz/site/complaints/default.aspx
You are more than welcome to try to get the IPCA to look into this, in time I plan on doing it myself but I am being delayed by the Police being very slow in answering my questions. I have gone to the IPCA in the past (before I discovered they are staffed with ex cops) there is a process to follow which the Police use to delay to the point where they can claim the problem is too old to look into.
***** I have tried the Green Party with this very complaint, they were happy with that the Police told them, that the driver had only received a verbal warning, the Police will not confirm that to me!
Asa thought, I wonder how close a car will get, if you have some sort of device, stickout out the side of the bike, perhaps with a drill or grinder on the end of it, so that wenever a car comes too close, it will scratch the shit our of the side... Seems a funny option to me... I fact, I like it a lot so fuck it... I know what I am going to do, if I can ever get on a bike again! LOL
Actually in the UK they call them Dual Carriageways and the rules for cyclists are the same in the UK as they are in NZ. In addition cyclists in the UK and NZ are encouraged to claim the lane by cycling further out were narrow lanes or roads do not allow safe clearance should a motorist try to overtake within the lane. claiming the lane is also encouraged through intersections/junctions naturally this situation had all the signals for a cyclist to claim the lane, I am shocked you didn't know that, have you learnt to drive yet?
***** I know what they call them i live in the UK you fool! in the uk tractors or cyclists cannot use duals as it says in the theory tests so yeah i know that! and yes ive been driving a very long time to know how bloody dangerous stupid cyclist are to us car users.
You ride around on roads in a smaller country that didn't have the funding to put cycle ways in at the time. You verbally abuse the people paying the tax that maintains the roads and funds the cycle ways that are being built. You don't mention the countless cycle tracks in parks and reserves designed for riding. People get frustrated by you trying to own a lane on busy roads. Perhaps you should review your footage and where you ride plus they way you act so you can enjoy the country you left yours to be in rather than try harm it every chance you get. If you cant do that then do yourself a favour and get a mountain bike and use the cycle parks.
Don't spread lies, look at your vehicle licence charge breakdown, there is not enough to even come close to paying for the wear and tear caused, the vast majority of it is the compulsory personal insurance = ACC. Local roads are paid for through properly taxes (general taxation). I have not once said anything derogatory to a careful and competent road user. Most of NZ's cycle tracks are a joke, they are in the middle of nowhere and require a car to get you to them. Only incompetent drivers get frustrated at being behind a cyclist, the rest just wait a few seconds if needed and pass them, I have no idea why drivers say passing cyclists is hard, if you can pass a car, passing a bike is child's play! You are just ranting without cause. far from trying to harm NZ I am trying to improve it, you can't argue that safer roads, better drivers, better Police, and a more active population would not improve NZ. I few less - uninsured cars, cars without Warrants of Fitness, and banned dangerous drivers actually being stopped from driving would be fantastic for NZ. Remember, everyone in New Zealand is from somewhere else, there are no indigenous New Zealanders, all New Zealanders owe it to their country to do their best to make it a safer place.
John Ridley Explain. I don't live in Auckland and I haven't gone vigilante. I ride motorbikes so I know what its like to have some negative public perception. I own a gopro camera but I haven't used it to post 38 negative clips on You tube or try to have peoples licences removed. OP is obsessed and when our country is running a "See the person. Share the road." cycle awareness campaign he is hurting his cause. Following people until they stop and abusing them and filing endless police complaints plus endless police negativity. You need view all this guys posts and tell me he doesn't enjoy fighting his cause a little to much to be the ambassador for cycle awareness to represent you.
ssmossy1200 What are you going on about, without people like me raising awareness of dangerous drivers there would not be a share the road campaign, which incidentally I have not see as I have have left New Zealand, and naturally have not been recording or posting NZ videos since I left other than one compilation video. When you see the behaviour of many New Zealanders deliberately driving dangerously around cyclist why would you not think it would be wise to give them a few demerit points? Saying nothing to them has made New Zealand's roads amongst the worst in the developed world. John Ridley has seen the compilation video, so is aware of the actions of New Zealanders around vulnerable road users. I have never followed someone until they stop, I have always stayed on the route I have chosen, why would you say I have done that? Are you one of the drivers, or do you know one of the drivers caught behaving dangerously? I have done something constructive to raise awareness of the dangers New Zealand Police are too arrogant to address, what have you done, other than try to undermine me, and trivialise the deaths and injuries that are deliberately caused by New Zealand drivers. You should be enraged by their behaviour, not supporting it! These are you fellow citizens that are being bullied, injured and killed, do you have no honour?
***** Published on Mar 7, 2012 Re; Your various allegations of unsafe driving Please refer to the following three matters; (1) Online Community Roadwatch Reports x 13 received by the Community Roadwatch Programme on 18 July 2011. (Reference made to video clips on 'RUclips') (2) Online Community Roadwatch Reports x 18 received by the Community Roadwatch Programme on 13 August 2011. (Reference made to video clips on 'RUclips') (3) A complaint you made at Henderson Police Station Public Counter on 14 September 2011 regarding alleged unsafe passing by motor vehicle CMC356. (DVD included) In regard to the 31 'Roadwatch' reports, (1 and 2 above), these were forwarded by Community Roadwatch to the Police. Once again, I am aware that these matters are very similar to a number of other complaints that you have made in the past, which have resulted in no action being taken by Police. As the Officer in charge of the Waitakere Police CIU, I have again reviewed these latest three matters accordingly. I can advise you that Police again will not be taking any action against the drivers you have stated "overtook me [on your bicycle] giving a dangerous amount of clearance". Legal advice from both the Police Legal Section and the Police Prosecution Section is that there are no applicable charges that can be laid against the respective drivers. It should be noted by you that the passage you quote in each of your complaints from the "Offical New Zealand Road Code", in relation to safe driving around cyclists is a guide only to vehicle drivers. In other words, it is not legislation, and is not enforceable by Police. These matters will now be filed accordingly I can also advise you that any further complaints of a similar nature which you make will be returned to you with no action taken by the police. Whilst I was reviewing the various video clips you provided or you have placed on RUclips, it was noted that on several occasions you have taken upon yourself to confront drivers (banging on their window, yelling at them words to the effect that they must allow 1.5 meters around cyclists, and to look for themselves on RUclips). This is high risk behaviour on your part, and could lead to an incident of 'road rage'. If something like this occurs, Police will investigate...... If you are found to have provoked or caused such a matter, you could well face appropriate criminal charges. Yours sincerely A D King Acting Detective Senior Sergeant AKG380 O/C Combined Investigation Unit, Waitakere Police That's not raising awareness. Its an unhealthy obsession that you have with both the public and the police. I could count endless near miss events while on one of my motorcycles. The risks are real and that I agree with but where theres human error involved the risks are still there and at some point you need own the risk and work out if you like cycling enough to take the risk. Maybe post some fun riding clips and promote cycling would be a good thing for cycling. One thing I don't agree with is following people and confronting them. This behaviour that your into is going to scare someone enough for them to react violently and will be seen as self defence. Think about what knocking on a window of someone who believes you maybe about to attack them may lead.
You remain focused on the negative videos for some reason, why is this? I have, without fail, posted videos of every driver that has made an effort to pass me safely. For some reason you do not want to draw attention to the good drivers in New Zealand. I on the other hand am very grateful of every pass that a driver shows courtesy. Tapping on someone's window to ask them why they just risked my live for no reason is a very normal reaction, I don't see why you would have a problem with me asking for an explanation. Do you feel cyclists are not worthy of an answer when some low life takes chances with their life. The RoadWatch reports are for complaints that the complainant does not want to take court action on, and are only meant to result in a letter being sent to the driver to make them aware that deliberately putting a cyclist at risk is not acceptable, why would you have a problem with me making RoadWatch reports that are backed up with video evidence so the Police can do the right thing if they feel like it that day.
I would place that as attempted murder. He drives directly at you! Absolutely shocking!
The police are just as bad as the driver by turning a blind eye to this. Now the driver knows he can get away with endangering others' lives
For now, get a bit of rusty construction rebar and stick it to the back of your bike, slightly longer than your handlebars. Anyone that drives too close will royally fuck their bodywork up and it'll be their fault. Just be careful when filtering
That driver needs to give back their licence.
"As I have stated repeatedly, unless you are knocked off your bicycle and therefore the victim of a true collision,this type of complaint will simply continue to be filed."
Let me translate this into plain English for you:
'Trying to run people over and recklessly endangering lives is legal far as far as we're concerned, as long as your victims are cyclists, and they don't actually die or something.'
Can't believe how sad a state of affairs it is in that police department...
I wish it was only that one department, most cops stopped their threatening and intimidating behaviour towards me when they learnt in was recording their phone calls. This cop is such a power tripper that he even continued in signed letters. Even more shocking is the scum that is in charge of him do not want to change the disgusting culture that goes right through the New Zealand Police Force
i guess having good bike handling skills is a disadvantage. next time just fall off the bike on purpose so the police will be able to do something.
full of bullshit. if a person tries to assault you but he didnt injure you, the police will "file the case"?
I started to scream at the screen. Driver is a MUPPET!
Failing to keep left?
*Road positioning*
Riding further out from the edge of the road is safer, faster, and helps prevent motorists from cutting you up.
Never hug the kerb. That's rule one of road positioning on a bicycle. You need to be further out into the road, sometimes right in the middle of the traffic stream. Less assertive cyclists worry that being further out may put them in the way of the traffic. It won't: you are the traffic. Being in the traffic stream helps you to get treated like traffic.
*Reducing risk*
It can feel safer to ride in or near the gutter. It isn't safer. It vastly increases the chances of drivers buzzing past you with inches to spare. You'll have to contend with drains, cambered surfaces, and debris like broken glass that has been 'swept' to the edge of the road by the action of car tyres. And you're less likely to be seen at all by drivers.
The commonest type of car-cyclist collision is the 'Sorry, mate, I didn't see you' variety. You must register in a driver's field of vision. You'll do that best by cycling where they are looking. Drivers look where their vehicle will be in the next few seconds, which is to say: ahead of them. They pay much less attention to people and objects in their peripheral vision.
Initially, you may feel exposed exposed riding further out from the kerb. But it's very rare for cyclists to get rear-ended by drivers.
Being safe is being seen - and forcing drivers to react to your presence.
*Controlling your space*
Drivers are obliged by the Highway Code (Rule 163) to give you 'at least as much room as a car' when overtaking. Let that sink in: at least as much room as a car. That means that they should pull out, cross the central, dashed white line, and pull in again.
By riding further out from the edge of the road, you force following traffic to overtake you properly instead of squeezing past dangerously close. Are you inconveniencing anyone? Only those drivers who would not have overtaken you safely in the first place.
As a rule of thumb, your distance from the kerb is the same distances that drivers will give you when overtaking.
*How far from the kerb?*
You never want to be closer than 50cm from the kerb. Often you'll be a metre out, sometimes more. The key factor is not so much the edge of the road as the location of the traffic stream on that road; that is, where cars are actually driving in that traffic lane.
There are essentially two cycling positions to choose from, relative to the traffic stream. One is the centre of the traffic stream - that is, the centre of the lane, rather than the centre of the road. You'll sometimes hear this called 'the primary position', but it's easier to think of it as 'taking the lane'.
The other position is about a metre to the left of the traffic stream, so long as that doesn't bring you too close to the kerb. Sometimes called 'the secondary position', you can think of it simply as 'not taking the lane'.
*When to take the lane*
If you can keep up with the traffic, such as around town, it's safest to take the lane. It's also the position to adopt when you want to dissuade drivers from doing something stupid, like cutting you up. Here's a non-exhaustive list of situations when it's best to take the lane.
• Approaching a pinch point, such as pedestrian island in the centre of the road.
• Approaching and negotiating a roundabout.
• Approaching Give Way markings.
• Approaching a side road, to prevent drivers from 'left-hooking' you and to help drivers on the side road to see you.
• Approaching traffic lights.
• Approaching a blind corner.
• Negotiating a junction.
• In queues of stationary traffic.
• Overtaking parked cars.
*When not to take the lane*
If you're not confident in taking the lane, especially when simply riding along, don't feel that you have to. If the road is busy and the traffic is moving faster than you can, either because it's a fast road or a steep hill, you're often better not taking the lane. This is a courtesy to drivers, enabling them to overtake you more easily.
Your safety is paramount, so you should not feel pressured not to take the lane. If a driver pips his horn at you, relax in the knowledge that he has seen you.
*Changing positions*
Unless you're taking evasive action, any change in position should be gradual - particularly when moving out to take the lane. Check back to see where any following traffic is, then gradually move into your new position. If you check back early enough, you may not need to signal to change your position within a traffic lane. Signal when you need to communicate your intention to drives who are closer.
Don't assume that you can move left to the secondary position without checking behind you. Around town, another cyclist or a moped rider may be about to 'undertake' you.
*Specific to cyclists*
Cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast, although most drivers are not aware of this. On fast or busy roads, it is courteous to single out to make it easier for drivers to pass.
Cyclists are allowed to stop on double-yellow lines. Again, drivers may be unaware of this.
Finally, don't tailgate motor vehicles. It reduces your visibility - in both senses - and bicycles can't stop as fast as cars, so you risk rear-ending a car if it stops suddenly.
(cyclescheme uk)
*Cyclists have a right to claim the lane*
It may come as a surprise to most drivers but cyclists have as much right as drivers to take up the entire lane. You will often see cyclists riding side-by-side, and you, as a driver, may think they’re being selfish by doing so. But the fact is the cyclist is actually reducing the risk of having an accident; it’s the safest way for them to cycle, particularly if there’s a blind bend, a narrowing of the road, a high risk junction, pinch point or traffic lights ahead.
Cyclists should never cycle in the gutter as it gives no room for avoiding obstacles and leaves no room to fall if an accident occurs, increasing the risk of falling into the road and potentially under the wheels of a vehicle.
*It’s your responsibility as a driver to avoid hitting the cyclist, not the responsibility of the cyclist to avoid getting hit by you.*
(Derbyshire police)
So in effect they will only charge someone who commits a traffic offence if a person is knocked off their bike? I bet if it were a policeman on the bike that they would have counted it much more serious? Clods.
The Auckland Road Traffic Manager offered to meet me about this shocking decision, and how I felt about being told I was wasting Police time, when I said a wanted to bring someone along with me he then changed his mind! It is concerning as the Police in NZ are known to beat the public to convince them to shut the I=uck up. I can see no other reason for the cop changing his mind other than it interfered with the plan he had for "convincing" me I was wrong about the Police.inaction.
That is horrendous. Even if your riding position was wrong, which it is not, this is still an attempted assault that could have resulted in serious injury. As person who wants to visit NZ, police actions like do the exact opposite of promoting tourism. Shameful police behavior.
Thanks for all the updates, C.M. TheVexatiousLitigant. All the best for 2014 mate.
The indicator blinks once at 0:05 and then turns off. That is not a reflection.
She isn't dead (Mary Bowers) but still in hospital and barely conscious. A year after the accident :(
So has anything become of the complaint?
Once again I'm appalled at the actions of this motorist. Absolutely unacceptable. What the hell is he/she thinking? Straight out intimidation of the lowest form.
People need an education and the Police need to "throw the book" at idiots like this. His actions could easily have resulted in another needless death.
I hope this driver was prosecuted for this STUPID, DANGEROUS act on the road. NO NEED for that behaviour NONE whatsover.
Dude, I'm glad you were able to stay upright. When that was done to me it snagged my handlebars and spat me onto the pavement in front of a shocked woman in a Prius who - thankfully - was able to stop before she ran me over. That could have ended badly in so many ways.
Definitely take it to the papers if they don;t ticket the guy. There is no way that was an accident.
I loathe to suggest this but a good hefty D-Lock makes for a great acoustic attention grabber when applied firmly to the side of a vehicle... assuming it is somewhere reachable that is.
Vex - I can tell by the calm in your voice that you're really getting acclimated to NZ drivers. Just another day at the office ;)
How does Cooney type 'minor', & keep the job?
Sadly this is the reality of Policing in New Zealand. I was fortunate to get a reply! The Cops are more likely to say a complaint was "lost" than actually reply, let alone do the job they are paid to do.
Try the Ombudsman?
Unbelievable (1) the incident itself (2) the failure to act: hopefully your video will get enough views to become too big to ignore.
Anyone who drives like that has no place behind the steering wheel. I would ban anyone who did that, without hesitation.
He is indicating to turn left until he sees you, then turns off the signal and decides to follow you.
This is as deliberate as it gets.
There is little doubt any cop would stand for being treated like this, and I am sure if a cop called this in straight away (as I did) it would be unlikely the driver would make it to his destination, and be very lucky to keep his licence.
Wow, I can't believe you managed to stay upright! I would have fallen over from the fright of it. The police will have to be totally useless to ignore that one! Some sort of criminal charge is warranted there as a bare minimum.
The Police are still dragging the chain with replying to me, I have to give them the rope they need before going further.
Yes, I did see the indicator, it would be interesting to know where the driver lives (or know where he was going) to see if that adds to the way this looks.
This one should definitely be reported.. Wow...
if you ask me, thats reckless endangerment, and or reckless operation of a motor vehicle. the fact that the cops did nothing shows once again them not protecting the public at large.
It beats me, that along with the admission of saying the same thing previously, and saying he will continue to disregard future evidence of dangerous and careless driving! It begs the question, "how can his supervisors be allowed to keep their jobs too" Too much public money is being wasted employing Police that refuse to Police the roads.
20 working days the police have to respond if they have not passed on enquires to someone else in regard to the Official information's act, or the privacy act. but the agents do not appear to respect NZ legislation from my experience. They may give you the silent treatment, or tell you "You have no right to enquire, you can just go away", or "We do not have the privilege of time to answer questions.", or will call you derogatory names if you are a requester.
a car does not actually have to hit a cyclist to cause them to fall off. The wind turbulence alone and shock reactions can have a cyclist fall off.
If this happened to one of their bike cops or motorcycle cops, they'd have arrested the criminal with extreme prejudice. Such hypocrisy.......
The Metro (a free London daily) this week had the front page headline "Put Cyclists First". This was the day after multi-olympic medal winner Bradley Wiggens and his coach were both in separate road accidents. The Times has been running it's #cyclesafe campaign for the last year. So, there is a positive interest.
Surely that is assault, plain and simple. If he wasn't in his car and he shoulder checked you while you were cycling then you can press charges, I don't see this being any different. Good luck!
If they don't do anything about it. Take that to the papers.
Surely the police will do something about this.
wow you have a lot of cameras
The story behind so may cameras:
I only felt I needed one (rear) to provide the Police with enough evidence of unsafe passing, but they (it was actually the cop who wrote the letter in this video's description) said they needed a front view too, so I bough another, again they (he) said this wasn't showing a clear enough view. Finally at three cameras this cop said don't report any dangerous drivers unless they actually hit you, after being hit this cop then said only report dangerous drivers if they injure you when they hit you, I am sure we can all guess Craig Cooney's next move! but if they do actually kill me, how will I report the driver? still at least Craig Cooney will not have to do any work. Welcome to Policing New Zealand style!
***** sounds like the Minneapolis cops. I gave them the name, address, and phone number of the person who robbed me because i personally knew the person. They basically told me to fuck off and I wasn't worth their time. I guess it's global!
*****
Write a formal complaint about this officer, include all your communications, and add what you just said. This is unacceptable policing, no matter where you are
Not worth it, the time I made a complaint about Police attitude, the complaint was "lost"! I quit, heading home to the UK. NZ has little to offer, there are a few nice views, but no history, culture, or law. They talk as if there is, but it is just so boring,
Looking forward to seeing more of the UK and Europe again, without spending a small fortune getting there.
I know the car is in the wrong, but why did you not go to the left at the intersection?
because I have been taught that especially at junctions/intersections that it would encourage an incompetent driver to try to squeeze through a gap where there isn't space to give the safe (NZ recommended minimum 1.5 meters) clearance required of a motorist passing a cyclist.
Ridiculous. Do let us all know how it unfolds.
It wouldn't feel right, I known it is Police ignoring complaints again but that story is disgusting. The Police claiming no one came forward, now at last count there are 4 complaints for people that did come forward, it makes you wonder if the Police have family that are being accused. Heads need to roll, but I am sure they won't
Cyclists have the same right to the road as motor vehicles
I don't know the laws in NZ, is there really one requiring cyclists to keep left? Or does the police officer not know the law in addition to not understanding the definition of the word "collision". He certainly go the condescension down pat though.
+Daniel Brotherston There is no law requiring cyclists to keep any further left than any other vehicle in NZ is. Official advise is for cyclists to move further right where lanes are too narrow to be shared and still allow for the NZ Road Code recommended safe clearance that is a minimum of 1.5 meters.
An unsafe pass in NZ can result in anything from Unsafe Passing, to Dangerous Driving, dependant on the Police Officers "judgement", naturally deliberately hitting a cyclist (in theory) should result in one of the more harsh penalties available to the officer.
This is not the first time Craig Cooney has failed in his duties, what is more concerning is the complete incompetence of Inspector R James, and the degree that New Zealand Police are struggling to find suitable employees. The willingness of NZ cops to invent their own laws to excuse working for a living is sickening, especially so given the number of lives their actions have cost.
Nearly took the skin off your knuckles!! That was a VERY close pass.
I suppose I should count myself lucky that his tyre hitting my foot knocked the rest of me clear!
Next time do it like the soccer players, fall off your bike (dive). It is really ridiculous that the police is not willing or able to do something.
+HelenaRG71 The Police are definitely able to do a lot, there are many options available, as on the odd occasion demonstrated by neighbouring Police Districts with the same rules. This pass could have resulted in anything from Dangerous Driving to Unsafe Passing.
Maybe people of New Zealand should each report this video to the police, then C.M Cooney might understand that this kind of driving is not acceptable, and could have very easily ended in an accident. But I guess C.M Cooney is a stand alone policeman, judge and jury, who is actually just a traffic cop.
The Police do not take the requirement to reply within 20 working days seriously, I can see you are familiar with their catalogue of excuses.
What is crazy to me is how they will take cases to a Jury trial with no evidence (just on one persons weak statement), yet when there is evidence they do not want to charge someone with having committed an offence. Cooney must support this behaviour as lawful, & moral conduct. Hit their cop cars like this,or them, & watch the 'hypocrisy'.
What do the rules and guidance in NZ say about cycling and driving? Are you encouraged to cycle in the middle of the lane (as we are in the UK)?
If so, then there must *surely* be a compelling case for redress against the police - their response looks like a complete dereliction of duty by the police. Whether it's the IPCA or some other body.
NZ rules say cyclists can claim the lane to avoid close passes. A Council run training course I took shortly after this confirmed I was in the correct passition in the road, and that taking the centre of the lane through intersections (junctions) is recommended best practice. I am still, after all this time, trying to get the Police to acknowlegde the New Zealand Road Code and the fact I was in the correct possition in the road. I have to give the Police the chance to correct their mistake before going to the IPCA
lockudlad As the law stands the rules about my position in the road have no importance, the overtaking driver is legally required to pass safely regardless of my position and the fact that my position in the road was confirmed to be correct. Unfortunately New Zealand Police are not only lazy incompetent scum, but anti anything that anything they don't have fun doing.
You have 3 cameras, 30 odd clips and *555 on speed dial. The popo will be sick of you calling them and you wont be happy until the people paying road taxes are told to stay at off the roads while you have a ride.
Yes 3 cameras, the Police said one, then two were not showing the incidents in enough detail from them to grasp that was happening.
*555 on speed dial? I think I can remember that number.
If the Police don't like doing their jobs they should quit, and if they can't do their jobs they should be fired, we pay a lot of money for Policing, the least they could do is earn their pay.
Why would you thing I don't want to share the roads with motorists when I ride a motorbike and drive a car, your mind works very strangely. Passing cyclists is not remotely difficult you know, I have passed hundreds, and not once behaved as badly as the drivers in my videos.
ruclips.net/video/rq0FXMFpJDI/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/Ev7f7BBwVwI/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/8dze_FRGXsc/видео.html
I enjoy driving and riding motorbikes, and have no problem sharing the roads with careful and competent road users.
What would make you think I wouldn't be happy sharing the roads with careful and competent road users?
It's disgusting how the Police in ALL countries deal with these types of drivers. Perhaps the law isn't there to neccessarily deal with the driver if you haven't been knocked off/injured (but I'm sure it is), regardless they are clearly a danger and need a 'talking to' which old fashioned policing would have no problem with, and has a high probability of stopping the driver from doing it again.
I understand the whole road positioning , dominating and controlling a lane but I tend not to do any of that I cycle and drive and when I'm among fast moving traffic I try to keep as much left as I can without being in the gutter but it's just my opinion
Good for you Stuart. Do you want a sticker?
Holy crap! Did you miss your proctology appointment and the doctor came after you? that's not careless driving, that showed highly intentional behaviour. Can't you sue the person under civil laws rather than let the police deal with it?
I messaged the police saying how disgusting their response is and if they are truly as shit useless as you say they are, I'm not holding my breath for a reply short of abuse and defensive messages, IF I get a reply at all.
This cyclist is an antagonist trying to bait motorists. Why else would he have 3 cameras? My guess is that he is never happy unless he is complaining about being right and having other s doing the wrong thing.
At least he has all the right gear, outfit & accessories to knock seconds off his Olympic time as he sits at the lights posing like a peacock.
An antagonist because I won't take the crap you would because you don;t have the balls to stand up, haha sure, lets say I am the one with a problem, so you don't feel quite as gutless as you do most days.
Next time you are in a bank, ask them why they are antagonising you with their cameras, please let you know how you get on, I love a good laugh.
***** If you like to laugh , have a look at yourself in your little outfit.
Damien Percy In all honesty I do laugh at the way I look in my cycling clothes, so fare comment.
Any response to me thinking you are gutless, or are you taking that one on the chin?
O and please remember to get back to me about the bank thing aye :-)
Northern Cyclist TVL I ride. I have a GoPro. But I dont sit in the middle of the lane because that's just arrogant. I also dont wear lycra just like the tens of millions of Europeans & Asians that manage to ride without looking like a peacock posing for a new mate.
Dont tell me you dont shave your legs (where do you stop) dont tell me you dont love to "accessorize" .
Dnot tell me you dont love to pose. in the mirror and in public. Tosser
Damien Percy Send me a link to one of you videos, maybe your approach to cycling is better than what is taught by NZ cycling instructors etc. it may just be that you are the best, I would guess you already recognize that you are but your superior knowledge may be just what we need to be safe.
Sorry, I am going to have to crush your fantasies, I only shave my crack sack and back, and wouldn't dream of shaving my legs. (o and I shave my head and face but I get the feeling that isn't where your interests lie)
I don't understand what accessorizing is, so can't help you on that or the mirror posing thing, I think I must be in a different demographic to you (honestly I am not judging, each to their own.
Looks like you could be struggling with answering questions by using your words, and you are showing some frustration, try not to let the majority opinion of safe cycling practice get in the way of you sharing your videos of your own view of things. Just try replying with videos if it helps, the bank video camera one sounds like a great one to start with.
All the best.
Sadly, there will come a day, when YOU (the cyclist) will need to have a freshly dipped paint brush (ie: one with a paint-can spray-squirter fitted into the brush-head itself, to ENSURE a nice bright GREEN wipe, gets drawn all along the side of such offending vehicles, then IT "truly" won't matter, if they are NEVER charged with any offence, as that HUGE UGLY GREEN STRIPE, will also "include" a good brand of heavy duty paint-stripper, rendering the car's entire paint job, a renewal event, at the very least.)
+Quix Kiwi I was lucky enough to leave NZ, I get nothing like the number of dangerous passes these days.
C.M. Cooney Acting Sergeant E961 Traffic Investigation Unit obviously does not know what his role is in the police service, and gets paid. Wow.
The police in the UK would have stopped that guy for dangerous driving. And the footage alone would have had dire consequences to his license.
wow that could have turned out nasty,there was no need for that :(
wtf punishment pass and assault this should go to court... dont know how you balanced to keep uprighr
oops. You'd need a cross bar hybrid to do that.
Thanks, everything that reminds them that they are pissing off their employers helps.
OMFG!!!! There was no call for that-hope the cops deal with this murderous bastard!!! :-(
Shit... I actually dodged left in my seat when watching that...what an ass...
Incredible!
@Vexacious-if I were you, I'd sue. This guy is in need of a very expensive lesson. Maybe it'll teach him to have respect for other road users.
Send a copy to the Minister of Police, & CC Cooney's superior, IPCA, & the Herald.
Did you notice the vehicle was indicating to turn, then in spotting you I believe turned off the indicator to target you.
'You' always pays. Notice how banks, council, & police are always 'us', 'we' while the customer, client, civilian is 'you'.
'You' always pays.
Disgraceful.
Typical SUV driver
next time: drive to the next traffic light and destroy his mirror or kick to the car... only with bashing you can show the mistakes of the car driver - same in germany... only stupid cars !!!
Try contacting Jacinda Ardern Labour police spokesperson. She may bring it to the media's attention, just as she is talking about the 'Roastbusters' at present.
I replied in the main feed,oops!
Wow that was close
Your a slow moving vehicle and you need to be considerate of that fact
You need to not give excuses to people for using their vehicle as a weapon.
Yes, I mean it's not as if there was another lane that the driver could have chosen to pass in, is it? Oh wait....
1st of all R U OK m8! that would have put the crap up me. 2nd what is the Police going 2 do about this & 3rd. the driver tried to kill U, attempted murder... take the footage also to a councillor or something, media, to highlight how bad it is for cyclist out there in NZ :(
For a moment i thought he was going to ram you
I think you need to get your politicians involved. At the moment, with regard to the poor driving skills of your motorists, you have the most inept police force in the world. The thing is, this guy is using his one ton vehicle as a means to intimidate. A weopon. This guy is a bully and yet your legal system requires you to be seriously inujured before they do anything to address the poor driving standards and agressive behaviour.
Time you and your fellow cyclsits started some form of political action group to get the law changed because at the moment your police force is the laughing stock of the western world.
Luck
I had an MP (Julie Anne Genter) enquire about this on my behalf, the story they told her was very different to the signed letter I have from the officer that actually handled the case. I have been waiting a long time for the Police to explain this to me. The Police here are well known for muddying the waters then stalling and later saying the case is now to old to reopen, all so they can protect their own (rather than the public)
But if they put a letter in writing, there is nothing that they can do to deny that. So your cops lie to all concerned to cover their own. You still need to hit your MPs harder for action. People only have the power that you give them and MPs are very aware of their precarious position. Keep pushing, not just for yourself but all the other cyclists that the police will not be helping in the future unless you do something.
Luck
MuppetAlex1 I am still after all this time asking for answers from the Police, it is currently with the Cop in charge of Auckland region traffic, I also asked why the Police are so slow at replying. I don't know if the extra question was too tricky, or he thought he would make me wait even longer just to prove he can do what he wants. but the end result is I am still waiting. It could just be that the cop I asked just happened to go on an unusually long holiday it wouldn't be the first (or second) time I have be unlucky like that!!!
Almost seems deliberate - terrible
Almost... Huh?
Stupidly close.
They won't do anything Too much like work.
They didn't, and Julie Anne Genter (Green Party MP) agreed with the cop that unless I was knocked off "and" injured, not to bother reporting Dangerous Driving!
I'm a New Zealander myself, and I'd be happy to file an IPCA complaint if you would approve? The link to do so is: www.ipca.govt.nz/site/complaints/default.aspx
You are more than welcome to try to get the IPCA to look into this, in time I plan on doing it myself but I am being delayed by the Police being very slow in answering my questions. I have gone to the IPCA in the past (before I discovered they are staffed with ex cops) there is a process to follow which the Police use to delay to the point where they can claim the problem is too old to look into.
***** I have tried the Green Party with this very complaint, they were happy with that the Police told them, that the driver had only received a verbal warning, the Police will not confirm that to me!
Asa thought, I wonder how close a car will get, if you have some sort of device, stickout out the side of the bike, perhaps with a drill or grinder on the end of it, so that wenever a car comes too close, it will scratch the shit our of the side...
Seems a funny option to me... I fact, I like it a lot so fuck it... I know what I am going to do, if I can ever get on a bike again! LOL
get some metal motorcycle bar ends. It will help protect your bike :)
Why are you even driving in the middle of the road and on a dual (that's what we call them in the uk) you're lucky you're still alive man.
Actually in the UK they call them Dual Carriageways and the rules for cyclists are the same in the UK as they are in NZ. In addition cyclists in the UK and NZ are encouraged to claim the lane by cycling further out were narrow lanes or roads do not allow safe clearance should a motorist try to overtake within the lane. claiming the lane is also encouraged through intersections/junctions naturally this situation had all the signals for a cyclist to claim the lane, I am shocked you didn't know that, have you learnt to drive yet?
***** I know what they call them i live in the UK you fool! in the uk tractors or cyclists cannot use duals as it says in the theory tests so yeah i know that! and yes ive been driving a very long time to know how bloody dangerous stupid cyclist are to us car users.
***** calling someone "retarded" just total pathetic. get some manners then ill reply back. Just so damn rude!
Stop stalling and get yourself tested
***** passed 6 years ago dipshit. 50/50 a 10 year old can pass it!
You ride around on roads in a smaller country that didn't have the funding to put cycle ways in at the time. You verbally abuse the people paying the tax that maintains the roads and funds the cycle ways that are being built. You don't mention the countless cycle tracks in parks and reserves designed for riding. People get frustrated by you trying to own a lane on busy roads. Perhaps you should review your footage and where you ride plus they way you act so you can enjoy the country you left yours to be in rather than try harm it every chance you get. If you cant do that then do yourself a favour and get a mountain bike and use the cycle parks.
Don't spread lies, look at your vehicle licence charge breakdown, there is not enough to even come close to paying for the wear and tear caused, the vast majority of it is the compulsory personal insurance = ACC. Local roads are paid for through properly taxes (general taxation). I have not once said anything derogatory to a careful and competent road user.
Most of NZ's cycle tracks are a joke, they are in the middle of nowhere and require a car to get you to them.
Only incompetent drivers get frustrated at being behind a cyclist, the rest just wait a few seconds if needed and pass them, I have no idea why drivers say passing cyclists is hard, if you can pass a car, passing a bike is child's play!
You are just ranting without cause. far from trying to harm NZ I am trying to improve it, you can't argue that safer roads, better drivers, better Police, and a more active population would not improve NZ. I few less - uninsured cars, cars without Warrants of Fitness, and banned dangerous drivers actually being stopped from driving would be fantastic for NZ.
Remember, everyone in New Zealand is from somewhere else, there are no indigenous New Zealanders, all New Zealanders owe it to their country to do their best to make it a safer place.
John Ridley Explain. I don't live in Auckland and I haven't gone vigilante. I ride motorbikes so I know what its like to have some negative public perception. I own a gopro camera but I haven't used it to post 38 negative clips on You tube or try to have peoples licences removed. OP is obsessed and when our country is running a "See the person. Share the road." cycle awareness campaign he is hurting his cause. Following people until they stop and abusing them and filing endless police complaints plus endless police negativity. You need view all this guys posts and tell me he doesn't enjoy fighting his cause a little to much to be the ambassador for cycle awareness to represent you.
ssmossy1200 What are you going on about, without people like me raising awareness of dangerous drivers there would not be a share the road campaign, which incidentally I have not see as I have have left New Zealand, and naturally have not been recording or posting NZ videos since I left other than one compilation video.
When you see the behaviour of many New Zealanders deliberately driving dangerously around cyclist why would you not think it would be wise to give them a few demerit points? Saying nothing to them has made New Zealand's roads amongst the worst in the developed world. John Ridley has seen the compilation video, so is aware of the actions of New Zealanders around vulnerable road users. I have never followed someone until they stop, I have always stayed on the route I have chosen, why would you say I have done that? Are you one of the drivers, or do you know one of the drivers caught behaving dangerously?
I have done something constructive to raise awareness of the dangers New Zealand Police are too arrogant to address, what have you done, other than try to undermine me, and trivialise the deaths and injuries that are deliberately caused by New Zealand drivers. You should be enraged by their behaviour, not supporting it!
These are you fellow citizens that are being bullied, injured and killed, do you have no honour?
*****
Published on Mar 7, 2012
Re; Your various allegations of unsafe driving
Please refer to the following three matters;
(1) Online Community Roadwatch Reports x 13 received by the Community Roadwatch Programme on 18 July 2011. (Reference made to video clips on 'RUclips')
(2) Online Community Roadwatch Reports x 18 received by the Community Roadwatch Programme on 13 August 2011. (Reference made to video clips on 'RUclips')
(3) A complaint you made at Henderson Police Station Public Counter on 14 September 2011 regarding alleged unsafe passing by motor vehicle CMC356. (DVD included)
In regard to the 31 'Roadwatch' reports, (1 and 2 above), these were forwarded by Community Roadwatch to the Police.
Once again, I am aware that these matters are very similar to a number of other complaints that you have made in the past, which have resulted in no action being taken by Police.
As the Officer in charge of the Waitakere Police CIU, I have again reviewed these latest three matters accordingly.
I can advise you that Police again will not be taking any action against the drivers you have stated "overtook me [on your bicycle] giving a dangerous amount of clearance".
Legal advice from both the Police Legal Section and the Police Prosecution Section is that there are no applicable charges that can be laid against the respective drivers.
It should be noted by you that the passage you quote in each of your complaints from the "Offical New Zealand Road Code", in relation to safe driving around cyclists is a guide only to vehicle drivers. In other words, it is not legislation, and is not enforceable by Police.
These matters will now be filed accordingly
I can also advise you that any further complaints of a similar nature which you make will be returned to you with no action taken by the police.
Whilst I was reviewing the various video clips you provided or you have placed on RUclips, it was noted that on several occasions you have taken upon yourself to confront drivers (banging on their window, yelling at them words to the effect that they must allow 1.5 meters around cyclists, and to look for themselves on RUclips).
This is high risk behaviour on your part, and could lead to an incident of 'road rage'. If something like this occurs, Police will investigate...... If you are found to have provoked or caused such a matter, you could well face appropriate criminal charges.
Yours sincerely
A D King
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant AKG380
O/C Combined Investigation Unit,
Waitakere Police
That's not raising awareness. Its an unhealthy obsession that you have with both the public and the police. I could count endless near miss events while on one of my motorcycles. The risks are real and that I agree with but where theres human error involved the risks are still there and at some point you need own the risk and work out if you like cycling enough to take the risk. Maybe post some fun riding clips and promote cycling would be a good thing for cycling.
One thing I don't agree with is following people and confronting them. This behaviour that your into is going to scare someone enough for them to react violently and will be seen as self defence. Think about what knocking on a window of someone who believes you maybe about to attack them may lead.
You remain focused on the negative videos for some reason, why is this?
I have, without fail, posted videos of every driver that has made an effort to pass me safely. For some reason you do not want to draw attention to the good drivers in New Zealand. I on the other hand am very grateful of every pass that a driver shows courtesy.
Tapping on someone's window to ask them why they just risked my live for no reason is a very normal reaction, I don't see why you would have a problem with me asking for an explanation. Do you feel cyclists are not worthy of an answer when some low life takes chances with their life.
The RoadWatch reports are for complaints that the complainant does not want to take court action on, and are only meant to result in a letter being sent to the driver to make them aware that deliberately putting a cyclist at risk is not acceptable, why would you have a problem with me making RoadWatch reports that are backed up with video evidence so the Police can do the right thing if they feel like it that day.
wow
Ah, that's not quite true now. Here in New Jersey the police are excellent (viz. watch?v=dyUFlbgz1BQ).
I don't agree with the police response but I do think you could have been over to the left more
You sound much like a well spoken Brit. ;)
Just a Yorkshireman trying to speak clearly :-)