Cycling Safety
Riding tips:
- Ride in a straight line. Flowing with traffic in a predictable way is safer and makes it easier for other road users to share the road with you.
- Always ride one meter away from the curb or parked cars. It's easier to avoid potholes, debris, opening car doors and you are more visible to the people around you.
- Scan ahead and pick your route. Try to stick to it, avoiding bad decisions like weaving between parked cars, jumping up on the sidewalk, running red lights, and blocking crosswalks.
- Keep in touch with what is going on behind you as well as in front of you. Routinely look over your shoulder so you can communicate with the vehicles behind you.
- Ride in the direction of traffic, obey stop signals, and walk your bike when you are on the sidewalk.
- Communicate with other road users - signal your intentions, talk to people, make eye contact, and smile!
- Don't pass right-turning cars on the right. Either wait behind the car or pass it on the left (this assumes that the driver has signaled!)
- Leave some space around large vehicles. Make yourself more visible to drivers by staying out of trucks' big blind spots. It is not only up to the cyclist, but this is good to keep in mind.
- Beware of pedestrians stepping out from between parked cars and standing off the sidewalk hailing a cab or waiting to cross the street. Keeping an eye on pedestrians will help you avoid unnecessary conflict.
Everyday stuff:
- Think about where you are going before you begin riding. Good route choices help clear your head and let you enjoy cycling. Use the free Toronto Bike Map to select your route, taking into account your own skill level, the perceived skill level of drivers around you, the weather, road conditions, the speed of traffic and how alert you are.
- Pump up your tires, lube your chain, and make sure your brakes work! If you need help, stop by a bike shop or ask a friend. Your bicycle is your pal - treat it with respect and your legs will thank you.
- Wear a bike helmet while you are riding - helmets increase your visibility and protect your head in case of a fall.
- Buy a bell or horn for your bicycle - it's the law!
- Use lights and reflective material when cycling at night. See and be seen.
- For extra goodness, tuck in your shoelaces and roll up, or clip your pant legs so they stay clean and out of your chain.
Especially for kids:
- Ride single-file with friends and make your own decisions when crossing the street.
- Only double-ride if you are on a bicycle built for two!
- Use a backpack to carry your stuff. A bag hanging off your handlebar could cause you to fall down.
- Always wear your helmet.
Remember: Cycling is great fun, cheap, and helps keep you in shape!
