With the warmer weather upon us, we are seeing an influx of cyclists on the road. Whether you are a driver or a cyclist, we all have a role to play in sharing the road responsibly.
Cyclists, like pedestrians, are vulnerable to significant injuries or death in crashes with cars. While the top contributing factors attributed to crashes with cyclists are driver distraction and failure to yield, there are things that both drivers and cyclists can do to help everyone share the road responsibly.
When driving, you can help reduce the chances of a crash by sharing the road safely and following these tips:
- Keep a safe distance.Maintain at least three seconds behind cyclists andat least one metre when passing a cyclist. Don't risk side-swiping or running a cyclist off the road.
- Dooring is dangerous. Both drivers and passengers must shoulder check for cyclists before opening doors.
- Don't get distracted.Watch for cyclists on the road and make eye contact if you can, so they can anticipate your next move.
- Look out. Shoulder check for cyclists before turning right and watch for oncoming cyclists before turning left. Scan for cyclists before you enter the roadway from an alley or get in and out of a parking spot.
- Yield the right-of-way. Yield to cyclists and signal well in advance if you need to cross a designated bike lane or pull over to the side of the road.
When cycling, you can help to reduce the chances of a crash by following some simple tips and staying focused:
- Start at the top.Wearing an approved bicycle helmet that meets safety standards. Focus on how it fits: it should be snug, but not uncomfortable, and should not be able to roll off of your head when the chin strap is secured.
- Reflect on safety.Be extra visible with reflective gear on your bicycle pedals and wheels.
- Bike lanes are best.Use designated bike routes whenever possible they're safer and reduce conflicts with vehicle traffic.
- Don't ride on the sidewalk.If there's no bike lane, keep to the right-hand side of the road as much as it's safe to do so.
- Follow the rules of the road. Make sure you obey all traffic signs and signals and adhere to the rules of the road.
- Use caution around parked vehicles.Be aware of people in vehicles to avoid getting hit by an opening door. Try to keep at least one metre away from parked vehicles.
- Shoulder check. Use hand signals and shoulder check in advance before taking any turns. Remember, drivers sometimes fail to yield right-of-way.
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