I am a cyclist. It’s a simple statement, but you have to understand what it means. I fully support the cycling community by being a law abiding cyclist. That’s probably an oxymoron based on what I see on an almost daily basis.
Why underline cycling? The true cycling community is one that supports cycle commuting, recreational cycling, trail usage, amateur and professional racing and along with supporting the riders and organizers of events, we also support drivers, pedestrians and the lawmakers and law enforcement staff who provide safety in a potentially dangerous environment.
While it is admirable for people to cycle to work, or recreationally, it is also a requirement to understand and abide by the simple and easily to understand laws. I fully believe that we should require a licensing system for bicyclists because the entry criteria of “has a bike” isn’t enough.
It is of absolute importance that you as a cyclist, and as a driver, fully understand the Highway Traffic Act and how cycling and the law come into play on our Ontario roads. Far too many times I see cyclists and drivers making horrible, dangerous and illegal decisions and it’s really infuriating that the standard is set so low for some people.
First assignment: Read this!
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling-guide/section5.0.shtml
A large number of cyclists do these things far too often:
- Run red lights
- Pass cars on the right
- Pass between car lanes to advance position in traffic
- Jump onto the sidewalk to avoid cars
The Toronto Star recently did a great article chronicling the cyclists who breezed through the red light over the course of an hour at a very busy intersection. The result was frightening.
HTA 147 – Slow moving traffic travel on right side – any vehicle moving slower than the normal traffic speed should drive in the right-hand lane, or as close as practicable to the right edge of the road except when preparing to turn left or when passing another vehicle. For cyclists, you must ride far enough out from the curb to maintain a straight line, clear of sewer grates, debris, potholes, and parked car doors. You may occupy any part of a lane when your safety warrants it. Never compromise your safety for the convenience of a motorist behind you. Set fine: $85.00
Hey Eric, I like the article, but I can’t find your exact text in the HTA. Wondering where you found it. I only ask because I am writing an article based on 35 odd years of city cycling (10,000+ km’s) and driving (500,000+ -ok, quite a few highway trips) and the on the street perspective as it pertains to the act.
Thanks and keep pedaling!
It seems that they’ve changed the wording on the site. I should have screen captured the image to go with the post. There is some more detailed wording here on the “safe distance”.
http://www.ontla.on.ca/web/bills/bills_detail.do?locale=en&Intranet=&BillID=2364