Safe Cycling
Cycling is a fun and healthy activity. It’s a low-cost way to get around and it is good for the environment. Everyone has a role in keeping cycling a safe activity.
When you are riding your bicycle keep yourself safe by:
- Wearing a properly fitting helmet. It is the law if you are under 18 years of age and a good practice if you are older
- Keeping your bike in good working condition
- Knowing what safety equipment you need such as lights and reflectors for night time riding
- Making yourself easy to see
- Knowing and follow the rules of the road
- When cycling you need to obey all traffic laws
- You have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers
- Ride on the right side of the road as close to the edge of the road whenever possible, especially if you are slower than other traffic
- Get off and walk your bicycle in a pedestrian crossover
When you are driving
- Pass safely leaving a minimum of one-metre distance
- Learn more about the one-metre passing with these videos:
- Open your car door safety by reaching with your right hand to open the door and look over your shoulder to make sure the space is clear of cyclist.
- Do not follow a bicycle too closely.
- Watch out for children. They may not be aware of all of the dangers or all of the rules of the road.
- Check over your shoulder and always check your blind spot. A bicyclist could be there.
Stay Safe, Stay Back
- Be aware of the danger of riding too close to large trucks.
- It’s important to recognize that large trucks have large blind spots where the drive is not able to see a cyclist when they ride close to the truck.
- Learn about the “Safe Zone” and the “No go Zone” when cycling in traffic alongside large trucks.
- How to stay keep safe near trucks.
- Learn safety tips for Sharing the Road
The Cycling Skills, Ontario Guide for Safe Cycling offers tips for keeping your bike and yourself safe as well as how to ride safely in traffic.
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation has more information about cycling safety as well as rules and penalties.
The Young Cyclist’s Guide for children offers tips on fitting your helmet, finding a bike that fits and learning the rules of the road.