As a long-time cyclist, I’ve chosen to ride in many varied circumstances and I’ve seen cycling become a popular form of transportation, recreation and exercise for many.
I’d like to offer a reminder of some commonly-held rules of the path/road that make for safer and more enjoyable riding.
Here is a quick refresher amid Go By Bike week, which takes place provincewide May 31 to June 6.
Be predictable Just like when you drive a car, you want others around you who are walking, riding, or driving to anticipate what you will do so that they can make any adjustment necessary. A bell to catch others’ attention before you pass on the left is a great idea as is calling out, “On your left,” when you overtake someone who may also share your space.
Be visible This can’t be stressed enough. Bright colours, especially fluorescent pink, orange and green, help you be seen so that there is less chance a driver will not see you among all the other objects in their field of vision. Statistically, cyclists wearing bright coloured clothes are involved in fewer accidents.
Wear a helmet So many options exist. This is the most critical pieces of equipment beyond a properly functioning bike. Wearing a helmet significantly reduces your chances of a head injury. With advances in research, helmets are always being redesigned to be more comfortable and reduce risks so updating after a crash or after faithful years of service is important.
Ride single file I have ridden beside friends on recreational trails like the Rail Trail or on quiet roads, I admit, however, as soon as another cyclist approaches, it’s single file time. This allows plenty of space to pass.
Stay on the shoulder of the road If you have to cross the white line into traffic, shoulder check and make sure it is safe before you cross into drivers’ lane.
Just because you can go fast, doesn’t mean you should E-bikers, this one’s for you. When approaching other cyclists, blind corners, intersections, anywhere when sudden stopping may be needed, slow down. The faster that you are travelling, the greater chance that more serious damage will be done to you or others if you have a spill.
When you ride with children, tell them what they need to do and why Just as we teach our kids how to safely cross the street by crossing with them and telling them to look both ways before crossing, children need to hear the many reminders about the rules of the road for cyclists. They need to know, for example, that you look left for those who are turning before starting up at an intersection and steer wide around parked cars.
Be courteous and kind The choices you make can positively or negatively affect the people you meet. Share a smile when you can and enjoy the ride.
