Bicycle Safety
 |
Bicycles are vehicles and cyclists have the same rights and duties as car drivers or truck drivers. Riding by the same set of rules as motorists makes you predictable and reduces your risk of having an accident.
12 Point Bicycle InspectionBefore you ride, the following 12 point inspection should be done to ensure that a bicycle is in safe riding condition.
 |
1. | Saddle |
| 2. | Brake Pads | |
| 3. | Lights & Reflectors | |
| 4. | Brake Cables | |
| 5. | Shifter Levers | |
| 6. | Pedals | |
| 7. | Pedal Cranks & Bottom Bracket | |
| 8. | Chain Sprocket | |
| 9. | Tires & Spokes | |
| 10. | Derailler | |
| 11. | Gear Cluster | |
| 12. | Wheel Bearings |
In BC, it is mandatory that all cyclists wear bicycle helmets. 80% of all bicycle-related deaths are caused by head injuries and 85% of serious head injuries can be prevented by wearing a bicycle helmet.
What is the penalty? The penalty for cycling without a bicycle helmet is $29.
Cyclist Visibility
Cyclists should wear fluorescent or brightly coloured clothing with reflective materials. All bicycles should be equipped with front and rear reflectors and lights.
Cycling on Roadways
Cyclists should ride at the far right of the roadway in the direction of the flow of traffic on bicycle routes and low volume roadways wherever possible. In addition, all traffic signals and road signs should be obeyed and hazards such as parked vehicles pulling away from the curb, the opening of doors of parked cars, rocks, potholes, and storm drains/utility covers should be avoided. Use extra caution when crossing driveways.
Entering the Flow of Traffic
Cyclists should always shoulder check and hand signal before entering the flow of traffic and always make eye contact with drivers of approaching vehicles. The practice of making eye contact with drivers is to ensure that the driver has seen the cyclist and has the intention of yielding.
Crossing Intersections
Cyclists should always check for traffic and pedestrians before entering an intersection, or passing a driveway or lane. Cyclists may ride through the intersection on the roadway or walk the bicycle at the pedestrian crossing area.
Simple Rules for Safety
- Always check your bicycle for size. If you can stand above the horizontal cross-bar with your seat at hip level, then the fit is right.
- You must have a white front light and a rear red light or reflector when riding your bike between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise.
- Your bike must be equipped with a bell or horn.
- Your bike must have at least one braking system.
- Listening to portable stereos or wearing head phones can be dangerous while riding a bike.
