Unlicensed driver charged after hitting cyclists

Forestland Wheelers club champion David Joyce (right). Photo / APN

Police have charged a teenager and a 51-year-old man over a crash which left a cycling couple with serious injuries on a dangerous stretch of road near Taupo.

David Joyce, 52, and Sirpa Lajunen, 49 were cycling on Poihipi Rd when they were struck by a 4WD just after 3pm on May 25.

Both were airlifted to Waikato Hospital and underwent surgery.

Ms Lajunen is still recovering in hospital, while Mr Joyce still needs out patient treatment.

Police said an investigation had revealed two vehicles were travelling in convoy along the road in the same direction as the cyclists.

The first vehicle pulled wide to avoid the cyclists but the second vehicle hit them, police said.

A 17-year-old man from Taupo has been charged with two counts of careless driving causing injury and one count of driving while his licence was revoked over the crash.

A 51-year-old man, who was driving the first vehicle, has been charged with counselling another driver to drive while their licence was revoked.

They will both appear before Taupo District Court on 27 June.

Constable Nick Weight said the incident showed the need for motorists to share the road with cyclists.

"It is a stark reminder that riders and motorists have equal rights and responsibilities on the road.

"Cyclists are particularly vulnerable and other motorists are urged to be aware of their surroundings at all times. It is recommended that a 1.5m distance is given to cyclists and if circumstances prevent this, then drivers should be patient until they are sure they can pass safely."

- HERALD ONLINE