News

SIMCOE, JUNE 17 2016 – Cycling for recreation and tourism is on the rise in both Haldimand and Norfolk counties. As more and more riders take to the road, the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit reminds all users to share the road.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and the rules of the road apply to cyclists and drivers,” says Michele Crowley, Health Promoter with the Health Unit. “

Recent legislation changes require that drivers give cyclists the space they need – a minimum of one metre – when passing a cyclist on the road.
“Speeding by or squeezing between oncoming traffic and someone on a bike is risky business. If, as a driver, you are feeling nervous trying to squeeze through, imagine how the cyclist feels. It’s safer for everyone to hold back until oncoming traffic has cleared before passing. We have to remember that bicycles don’t have crumple zones or air bags and riders are very vulnerable,” adds Crowley.

In addition to sharing the road, here are a few more safety tips and rules to remember.

Cyclists:

• Ride in a straight line on the right side of the road;
• Obey traffic laws, signs and signals, just as motorists do;
• Signal before turning;
• Ride one metre away from the curb;
• Ride past parked cars as if all car doors were open;
• Wear a helmet and bright clothing; and
• Equip your bike with a horn or bell, a white light on the front of the bike and red reflectors on the back.

Motorists:

• Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals;
• Be patient, slow down and give one metre clearance when passing bikes;
• Check for cyclists before opening vehicle doors;
• Always look for cyclists and pedestrians before turning; and
• Stay alert, slow down and be prepared for the unexpected.

Cyclists are drivers too. While you’re driving, help promote this important safety message with a free Share the Road bumper magnet. Visit www.hnhu.org/sharetheroad for more information.

Same roads. Same rules. Same rights.

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Media contact:
Jackie Wood
Health Planner
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
[email protected]
519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623 x 3276