Cyclists and drivers reminded to share the road

[projekktor id=’18314′]
Both cyclists and drivers could use a reminder about their rights and responsibilities. We’re already seeing an increase in the popularity of cycling and that’s only going to get bigger as the weather warms up, so cars and bikes need to make room for each other

There’s room for everyone on the road, but sometimes we forget how to share. Both cars and bikes are bound by the same rules, and Hamilton Police’s action team is out enforcing them. As Constable Alex Tam from the Hamilton Police Service explains, bicycles “are classified as vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act so they’re expected to follow all the signs and regulations just like a car would.”

“I’ll stop at all stop signs and intersections, and so many cyclists do not stop either at stop signs or traffic lights. They tend to go through them” says Andreas Moser from Freewheel Cycle.

As a cyclist, it may seem easy to roll through a red light, but if you get caught, you’ll face the same penalty as a driver does. And it’s steep. $325.00. Riding on the sidewalk or failing to signal can also earn you a ticket.

“You have to signal all your turns and you have to signal if you’re going to slow down just so the vehicles behind you know what your actions are going to be” says Constable Tam.

Signals can vary. Freewheel Cycle’s Andreas Moser uses the standard: a bent left arm to indicate a right turn and a straight left arm to signal left. Drivers are responsible for paying attention to cyclist’s cues and leaving them an adequate buffer. The Ministry of Transportation recommends at least one metre if you’re passing. If drivers are turning through a bike lane, they need to be extra cautious.

Then there’s the mandatory gear. A loud bell or horn, and lights if you’re cycling in the dark. A helmet is only mandatory for cyclists under 18 but recommended for everyone, especially if you’re cycling on a busy street.