Road safety and showing respect for others on the road can keep everyone safe throughout the year. Whether it’s other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians, there are bike rules which are mandated in Ontario by the Highway Traffic Act and for which you and your family should take note of and follow.

• Stop at red lights and stop signs, look both ways, and proceed only when the light turns green. Also travel in the designated direction on one way streets.
• Travel as far to the right as you can, except when making a left turn or passing.
• Always ride in a straight line with the traffic, not against it.
• Stay within the safety line. Do not compromise your own safety for the sake of a motorist who is behind you.
• Stop at all crosswalks and for pedestrians, and be sure to walk your bike across the street in the crosswalk area.
• When school buses have their stop sign extended and red lights flashing, you are required to stop until the children get off the bus and the stop sign returns to its closed position.
• You must stop two meters behind streetcar doors so that passengers have the opportunity to enter the car or walk to the curb.
• There is no bike riding allowed on expressways, freeways or on roads where signs clearly indicate “No Bicycle.”
• If you are ever stopped by police for breaking any traffic law, you must provide the officer with your full name and address.
• When riding with friends, always ride in a single file and using hand signals when making turns.
• The law prohibits a bike rider to carry a passenger.
• You must stay in your designated and not proceed into traffic lanes.
• The wearing of headphones or iPods is illegal.
• No drinking while riding.
• Wear the necessary protection such as a helmet, knee and arm pads as well.

Just as bike riders have rules and regulations they must follow, so too motorists should also be aware of safety precautions when encountering bike riders.

• Bike riders have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers.
• Bike riders must stay to the right and remain in the bike lane.
• They need at least a meter on either side for additional safety. When passing a biker, don’t come too close. If necessary, change lanes.
• Always check your blind spot to ensure that a biker rider is not coming close to your car door. This is particular important if you are exiting your vehicle.
• If you are making a right turn, always check to see if a biker rider is on the right.

Riding a bike, which is a vehicle, comes with as much responsibility as driving a car. Knowing the law and abiding by its rules and regulations will afford you the opportunity to safely bike around town. More importantly, respect for the law and other vehicles is paramount in ensuring that safety.

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