In Melbourne, a cyclist riding in a designated bike lane was struck by a grey Toyota Hilux that suddenly cut across his path. The impact didn’t just knock the rider sideways, it ripped a panel off the side of the ute and cost the driver $1200.
UpRide turns daily rides into data that drives change.
UpRider D was doing everything right. He was riding legally, staying in the bike lane, and clearly visible. But in a split second, the ute veered across and hit him, making direct contact.
To make matters worse, what followed wasn’t concern or an apology, it was road rage. The driver became hostile, and another driver, who was not even involved in the incident, began confronting the cyclist. One of those moments where you realise just how biased things can get.
With the footage from his Fly12 Sport, UpRider D took his footage straight to the police station and made a formal report. Thanks to the clear camera evidence, the result was a $1,200 fine and a conviction for the driver. That’s not just a warning, it’s accountability, which only happened because the footage backed him up.
“There’s been a rise in road rage, and that’s exactly why I got a camera in the first place, for self-defence.”
UpRider D says he feels most vulnerable on roads and highways, and this incident is a clear example of why. He believes the key to improving cyclist safety lies in increasing awareness and enforcing penalties, especially for distracted drivers. His advice for other cyclists is simple:
“Be aware. Ride with a camera. Be seen.”
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