Two cyclists in Sydney have been caught dicing with death by riding through a busy traffic tunnel without helmets, in an alarming trend for the city.
In the incident, the two riders are seen entering the Eastern Distributor on hire bikes with no helmets on.
Cars are seen speeding by the cyclists as they jump up onto a ledge, before being picked up by Transurban officials.
“We’re seeing more and more of these cyclist events occur and it’s very concerning for us,” Transurban’s Domenico De Conti said.
In another incident, an Uber Eats cyclist rides through the Lane Cove Tunnel with his delivery in tow before having second thoughts.
He then took refuge in an emergency exit before carrying on – and it cost him.
“In a situation where there is signage, a fine of $263 apply” Chief Inspector Phil Brooks said.
The Transport Workers Union says the reason delivery riders are making dangerous short cuts is company pressure to get the food out on time.
Last month, Deliveroo changed workers contracts stating: “If they do not complete delivery… they’d be liable for the costs.”
“Riders are breaking the law left, right and center because they’re expected to,” the Transport Workers Union’s Tony Sheldon said.
“If they don’t meet client expectation of getting the food there quickly, regardless of traffic condtions, as far as the company is concerned the rider is accountable.”
Police say the onus is on the companies to better educate their riders on the do’s and don’ts.
“Sadly with seven cyclist deaths so far this year, these sorts of events certainly highlight the risks some people are prepared to take,” Chief Inspector Brooks said. Nine News
