Cyclist and car collision on Bundarra Road, Armidale under investigation by New England police

The cyclist, a 19-year-old man from Armidale, escaped serious injury, walking away with scratches and bruising on Sunday.

The incident on Bundarra Road at Armidale about 1.30pm is under investigation as officers spent another day collecting statements on Monday.

Armidale Inspector Roger Best told The Leader the cyclist’s $10,000 Lapierre road bike had been written off in the collision with a Jeep four-wheel-drive.

“A 19-year-old suffered minor abrasions and bruising and an ambulance was declined,” he said.

“A 29-year-old man has been questioned by police and officers are finalising their investigations into the offence of menacing driving.”

Inspector Best said witnesses had been spoken too and more statements were still to be taken before any possible action.

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“Police are investigating an allegation the driver deliberately turned in front of the cyclist resulting in the impact,” he said. 

“Investigations are continuing.”

The incident, which went viral on social media on Sunday, has again sparked debate about safe passing laws.

Earlier this month, roads minister Melinda Pavey announced the two-year trial of the safe cycling laws would be made permanent.

Under the rules, drivers who pass cyclists must leave a distance of at least one metre on roads where the speed limit is 60km per hour or under; at least 1.5 metres where the speed limit is above 60km/h.

Motorists who don’t comply with the rules risk a $330 fine and the loss of two demerit points.

Some exemptions to the road rules are in place for drivers who are allowed to cross centre lines when passing a cyclist but only if they have a clear view of any approaching traffic and it’s safe to pass.