Cycling Safety Tips

To keep you and others safe while cycling, obey The Motor Vehicle Act and City bylaws, and follow the rules of the road provided below.

  • Yield to pedestrians and watch for school children crossing the routes.
  • Always come to a full stop at stop signs.
  • Signal before turning.
  • Do not ride on sidewalks unless allowed by signs or municipal bylaw. Walk your bicycle on a sidewalk.
  • When riding a multi-use path, reduce your speed and yield to pedestrians.
  • When you pass other users on a multi-use path, ring your bell or call out (e.g. "passing on your left") to alert them.
  • Yield to a bus when it is leaving a stop.
  • Never assume that another cyclist, driver, or pedestrian sees you. Make eye contact with other road users.
  • Take care when cycling past parked cars to leave enough space for drivers and passengers to open car doors.
  • You must use front and rear lights on your bicycle after dark.
  • All bicycles must have a warning bell.
  • Helmets are required and safety vests or reflective clothing are recommended.
  • Do not wear headphones that cover both ears.
  • Take extra care when it's wet because it will take longer for your brakes to grip and stop your bike.
  • Check out Better Environmentally Sound Transportation's Tips and Tricks for Safe and Happy Cycling.
  • For a more comprehensive guide to operating bike in traffic in BC, check out Bike Sense.
Share |