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Cycling Safety

Cycling injuries can occur anywhere, at anytime.

This makes it all the more important to be a "Defensive Cyclist" and know the rules of the road and practice basic bicycle safety - whatever your cycling environment.


What is Bicycle Safety?
  • Wearing a bicycle helmet (cyclists under 18 are required by Ontario law to wear a helmet when on roads or sidewalks)
  • Leaving yourself room to maneuver or "an out"
  • Riding on the road in accordance with traffic rules
  • Knowing your skill level, physical abilities and intended route in advance
  • Signaling clearly when making turns or lane changes
  • Equipping your bicycle with the appropriate safety gear such as headlights, reflectors and bell
  • Wearing clothing that allows you to be seen by other drivers both during the day and at night
  • Practicing regular bike maintenance
  • Be alert! Leave the headphones at home and pay attention to your surroundings!

What is NOT Bicycle Safety?
  • Riding on sidewalks
  • Challenging drivers for the road
  • Making haphazard or unexpected turns or lane changes
  • Riding without a helmet or other safety clothing
  • Being unprepared for the road ahead

Cycling can be fun and enjoyable whatever your reason for doing it. Good safety practices can enhance your cycling experience and possibly even save your life. Bike safely and get there alive.
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