Tips for Cyclists

Dufferin County , ON (OPP - Dufferin Detachment) Members of the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind all cyclists that under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act (HTA), a bicycle is considered a vehicle, in the same way that a car or truck is deemed to be a vehicle. This means that as a cyclist, you must: obey all traffic laws, understand that you have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, and cannot carry passengers- if your bicycle is only meant for a single person.

Keep in mind that the Ministry of Transportation recommends that children under the age of 10 should not ride on the road.

When Riding on the Road:

• Ride 1 meter from the curb or from parked cars to give yourself enough space to avoid hazards.
• Be visible to motorists by riding in a straight line on the right hand side of the road.
• Look for drivers changing lanes, exiting from driveways and parking lots to avoid being struck.
• Ride in the direction of traffic.
• Never share a lane with a large vehicle such as a truck or bus.
• When changing lanes, remember that vehicles in the other lane of traffic have the right-of-way; this means that the person moving into the new lane must wait for an opening.
• Cross railway tracks so that your tires are at a 90 degree angle to the railway track. This will prevent your wheel from catching in the track, which could make you fall or damage your bicycle wheels.

Lastly, avoid all distractions while cycling like listening to music with headphones or ear buds, or using a cellular phone. Please be attentive, keep your eyes on the road, and ride with the wind – open and free!

Stay tuned next week for more safety tips for cyclists and motorists.