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Driving on the
roads requires care and courtesy whether you are driving a car or a bicycle.
As a road user, cyclists must be predictable and obey all traffic
laws by riding in a responsible manner.
Rules for Cyclists
Cyclists have
the same rights and responsibilities as the driver of other vehicles using
the road. These responsibilities are defined under the Highway Traffic Act
(HTA). Cyclist who ride predictably, following the rules of the road and
behaving like other vehicles, are likely to be treated like vehicles and
are also more likely to be seen by other road users. Reducing conflicts
among road users reduces the risk of collisions.
Children under
the age of 10 don't have the judgment to ride bikes in traffic, but they can
learn the rules of the road by riding with adults. Children and adults must
master ►'Basic
Bike Handling Skills' before venturing in to traffic.
Below are a few
driving rules that should be considered at all times when cycling. For more
information visit the ►Ontario
Ministry of Transportation (MTO).
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OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS
Bicycles are vehicles and must
obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and traffic signals.
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COMMUNICATE WITH OTHERS
Let
other cyclists behind you know when you approach hazards. Call
out with a friendly greeting when you are passing.
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CENTER LANE
 When
a road is too narrow for cars and bikes to ride
safe, bicycles should ride in or near the center of the
lane.
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USE APPROPRIATE LANE
 Avoid
being in a right-turn only lane if you plan to proceed straight
through. Move into the straight-through lane early.
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HAND SIGNALS
Make sure
you look back before you make a lane change or turn. Always use
hand signals when turning and stopping.
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BE SEEN AND BE HEARD
Drivers of
half of all collisions claim not to have seen the other person or
vehicle. Make sure you can be seen and heard at all times.
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RIDE WITH TRAFFIC
If you approach an intersection
with a right turn lane and
intend
to continue straight, ride in
the
through lane with traffic.
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RIDE SLOWLY
Ride slowly
down hills, under and
across bridges
and where roads
curve sharply.
Always reduce your
speed when
entering an intersection.
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INTERSECTIONS
Be careful at Intersections.
Majority
of accidents occur at
intersections.
Proceed with care. Remember
cars,
trucks and buses all have blind
spots.
Try to keep out of those areas.
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EYE CONTACT
The best way to communicate
your
intentions with other drivers
is to
get their attention with eye
contact.
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HELMETS
Always wear a helmet.
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WATCH FOR POTENTIAL HAZARDS
Allow
time to manoeuvre around
these hazards and negotiate
with traffic. Avoid riding into
an opening with traffic.
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SIDEWALKS
Sidewalks are for pedestrians.
Make sure you walk your bike
on sidewalks and in crosswalks.
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