Safe

Share the Road and the Responsibility

Ten tips for making our roads safer.

HEY CYCLISTS:

1. Pay Attention.
Assume that motorists (and pedestrians) don’t see you. Avoid distractions like wearing headphones while you ride so that you can be fully aware of traffic flow and the obstacles around you.

2. Be Predictable.
Obey all traffic lights and stop signs and use hand signals to notify motorists that you intend to turn right, left or stop.

3. Be Visible, and Audible.
If there is no bike lane, ride on the right of the curb lane where there is sufficient lane width to share the lane with cars, and when it is safe to do so. If you have to leave the road for any reason, walk your bike on the sidewalk then remount once you are back on the road or bike lane.

4. Use the Bike Lanes.
Have a white front light and red rear light to strengthen visibility at night. Use your bike bell liberally when approaching pedestrians and vehicles who may not see you.

5. Slow Down.
Prepare your bike to stop as you approach obstacles, hidden driveways and blind corners. The slower you’re moving, the better you can react.

HEY MOTORISTS:

1. Pay Attention.
Look out for cyclists. Listen for bike bells and look for bike lights. When exiting your parked vehicle, check behind the vehicle before opening your door. When exiting the driver’s side of a vehicle, use your right hand to open the door. This “Dutch Reach” technique will help remind you to look for passing cyclists.

2. Check Before You Turn.
Check your right blind-spot before turning right. Before turning left, look a bit further down the oncoming road to see if there are any cyclists approaching the intersection. If you are driving a large vehicle, like a truck, or towing a trailer, be extra aware that blind spots are larger and your turning radius is greater, so make the turns cautiously.

3. Give Space.
When approaching a cyclist on a road that does not have a bike lane, slow down and attempt to pass with as much space as possible, and a minimum of one metre distance.

4. Respect the Bike Lanes.
When turning right on a road that includes a bike lane, stay in your car lane. Blocking the bike lane could force cyclists into moving traffic or onto the sidewalk. Do not stop or park in a bike lane.

5. Slow Down.
When you’re speeding it means graver consequences in all collisions, especially those with cyclists.