Tips on how motorists and cyclists can safely share the road.

With hundreds of kilometres of paved, smooth roads, Simcoe County is quickly becoming a cycling hotbed for residents and guests alike. As more and more cyclists take to the roads and reap the rewards of active living, it is important for motorists and cyclists to work together to ensure that our roadways are safe for everyone’s travelling enjoyment.

Remember that bicycles are considered vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act, which means that cyclists have the same rights to the road as other users and are responsible for obeying all traffic laws as well.

Here are some tips on how motorists and cyclists can safely share Township

BICYCLISTS – HOW TO SHARE THE ROAD SAFELY

1. Stop at all Stop signs
2. When riding 2 abreast please leave the left half of the lane clear to allow drivers to see the road ahead for safer passing
3. Group Riders should ride in tight predictable and small formations that make it easier for vehicles to pass
4. Wear highly visible clothing and/or strong lights to be seen early

MOTORISTS – HOW TO PASS CYCLISTS

1. Pass only when the oncoming lane is clear
2. Be patient, 2 abreast cycling is legal
3. The law requires a minimum of 1 m space between a cyclist and the car when passing therefore all passes require a lane change. Never pass a cyclist within the same lane.
4. Bicyclists have the same rights to use the road as cars

TRAIL ETIQUETTE 

1. Show Courtesy to all trail users – slow down when approaching pedestrians
2. Stay on the trail – preserve the natural vegetation and private property
3. Stay to the right – obey all posted signs and warnings
4. If you stop, do not block the trail
5. “Wheels yield to heels” – pedestrians always have the right of way
6. Cyclists – ride defensively and in control
7. Pass on the left when overtaking others and sound a warning by bell or voice
8. Do not litter – take out what you bring in

More information on cycling skills, cycling and the law, and road safety can be found on the Share the Road website.

Check out our videos on how to safely pass a cyclist and how cyclists can safely ride in groups: