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Riding Safely

Page updated: Wednesday April 11 2012

Follow the rules of the road

A bicycle is classified as a vehicle under the Ministry of Transportation's Highway Traffic Act (HTA). As a cyclist, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a motorized vehicle driver.

So when you’re cycling you must follow the rules of the road and behave in a predictable way.

Bike on the right

• Ride with the flow of traffic on the right hand side of the road.
• Don’t weave in and out of traffic.
• Stay close to the curb and watch for uneven pavement and debris.
• Give yourself plenty of room. Remember that you have the right to take a lane if necessary.

When cycling with others, ride in single-file along the side of the road, leaving space between each bike.

Communicate and be predictable

• Use hand signals to show that you’re going to stop or make a turn.
• Try to make eye contact with motor vehicle drivers.
• Always check over your shoulder before turning or changing lanes.

Watch for parked and turning vehicles

• Drivers can open their car doors without warning and knock you off your bike. So be careful while cycling past parked cars.
• Don’t pass on the right side of a motorized vehicle that’s signaling to turn right. The driver has the right of way and might not see you.

Plan your route

• Avoid roads with lots of traffic. Whenever possible use trails, paths and bike lanes instead.
• Check the Clean Air Peel website for the daily Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and the Ultraviolet (UV) Index to plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Before you leave for your bike ride:
  • Think about your journey and take the safest route to reach your destination.
  • Tell someone where you’re going and how long it will take you to get there.

Avoid injury

Avoid getting injured by being visible, using your gears properly and cycling at a safe speed.

Be visible

Wear bright or reflective clothing so others can see you easily at night or in bad weather. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment, including lights and a helmet.

Using your gears

• Riding in high gear can damage your joints, so only ride in high gear when you have to.
• Get comfortable with changing gears frequently.
• Make sure you use the right gear for the grade of the road. Your legs should revolve 70-100 times per minute when peddling.

Speed

• Ride at a reasonable speed that gives you total control over steering your bicycle.
• Always be prepared to stop and make quick manoeuvres.
• When biking in the rain or snow, give yourself extra room and apply your brakes earlier than you would when the road is dry.

Reporting a collision

Call 911 if you’re involved in or witness a serious collision and need immediate emergency help.

If you have witnessed or been involved in a collision but no one is injured, call:

• Peel Regional Police non-emergency number: 905-453-3311 (in Mississauga and Brampton)
• Ontario Provincial Police – Caledon detachment: 905-584-2241 (Caledon)

Sources:
Ontario Highways Traffic Act
Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling