Safety tips for cyclists and drivers
If there is a collision between a cyclist and a two-tonne vehicle, there is no question as to who will come out ahead. Yet the physical and psychological consequences affect both the cyclist and the driver of the vehicle. That’s why road safety is everyone’s responsibility, says OPP Constable Martin Hachey.
If you want to report bad behaviour by either drivers or cyclists, the OPP asks that you call 1-888-310-1122. This is the central dispatch number that applies across the province.
If a cyclist wants to lodge a complaint, they should provide the plate number of the vehicle (if possible), a description of the car or driver, where the incident occurred and in which direction the vehicle was travelling, says Hachey. Motorists lodging a complaint should provide a description of the cyclist(s), how many were in the peloton, where the incident occurred and in which direction they were travelling.
Do not take matters into your own hands, as that could take a very serious turn. Warns Hachey: “Avoid this at all costs and give us a call instead.”
What’s apparent in the heated rhetoric are entrenched attitudes that can inhibit positive conversations about how to make the roads safer for all users.
He also advises that the Highway Traffic Act requires that anyone using the road or trails is obliged to identify themselves if stopped by an officer and asked for identification. “It’s a good practice to carry your driver’s licence or health card – something that identifies who you are,” he says. “If the officer is not satisfied that you are 100 per cent who you say you are, or you refuse to identify entirely, then it could possibly lead to arrest.”
Safety Tips for Cyclists
- Follow the law – it’s the safest way to ride. Bicyclists have the same rights and duties as other drivers and need to follow the same traffic laws.
- Be predictable – ride in a straight line, signal turns and check behind you before turning or changing lanes.
- Come to a complete stop at every stop sign and red light.
- Ride with caution around parked cars and position yourself in the field of vision of a motorist pulling out of a parking space.
- Be conspicuous – ride where drivers can see you, use lights at night and wear bright clothing.
- Be aware – anticipate the next move of drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists. Watch for debris, potholes and grates.
- If you are a beginner or are returning to bicycling, seek out clubs or bicycling advocacy organizations in your community for tips on safe riding, instruction, and group rides to improve knowledge and confidence.
- Ride Ready — tires need air, brakes must work, chains should run smoothly, and quick-release wheel levers must be closed.
- Carry identification and cell phone, emergency cash, as well as repair and emergency supplies.
- Always wear a helmet.
Safety Tips for Motorists
- Respect bicyclists as legal road users with the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Drive courteously and with tolerance. That cyclist is your neighbour and you are sharing the same road.
- Obey the posted speed limit, and don’t drive too fast
- for conditions.
- Come to a complete stop at each stop sign and red light.
- Check over your shoulder, and always check your blind spot. A bicyclist could be there.
- Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the bicycle in front of you.
- Use low-beam headlights when driving in low-visibility conditions.
- Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists in and entering crosswalks.
- If you plan to turn right or pull into a parking space shortly ahead of a bicycle in front of you, do not pass.
- Signal all turns and lane changes 30 meters (100 feet)
- in advance.
- Pass bicyclists only if it is safe to do so. Exercise patience.
- Do not try to squeeze between a cyclist on your right and an oncoming vehicle on your left: you should only pass cyclists by making a ‘lane-change’ pass, as with all other vehicles
For more information on provincial traffic laws, safe cycling and sharing the road, visit:
Ontario Ministry of Transportation
www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/bicycle-safety.shtml
Government of Ontario Guide to Safe Cycling
www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/pdfs/cycling-skills.pdf
Share the Road Cycling Coalition
www.sharetheroad.ca
Collingwood Cycling Club
www.collingwoodcyclingclub.ca/defensive-cycling
