Share the Road
Bicyclists – Share the Road
Bicycles are considered vehicles under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, and have the same rights and responsibilities on public roadways as motorists. When you as a bicyclist fail to obey the rules of the road, you lose the support of motorists. Do your part by being a good ambassador for bicycling!
Follow Rules of the Road - Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals.
Ride on the Right - Ride single file when being passed. You may occupy any part of a lane when your safety warrants it, e.g. to avoid obstacles, or if the lane isn’t wide enough to safely pass.
Be Predictable - Ride in a straight line – don’t weave around obstacles. Stay about one metre from the edge/curb or parked cars to avoid hazards.
Use hand signals - To communicate turns and stops to other road users.
Be Visible - Wear brightly coloured clothing, including reflectors. Use lights in low light conditions (red rear, white front).
Be Courteous - When riding in groups, leave gaps to allow space for motorists or other bicyclists to pass. Yield to pedestrians. Warn others with a ring of your bell or friendly greeting before passing.
Motorists – Share The Road
Bicyclists are more vulnerable road users than motorists. They are smaller, quieter and have no “crumple zone”. A small mistake by a motorist can result in serious injury or death to a cyclist. Respect bicyclists as legal road users with the same rules and responsibilities as motorists. Drive courteously and with tolerance. That bicyclist is your neighbour and you are sharing the road.
