Motorists

Information for Motorists

Cyclists are more vulnerable road users than motorists. They are smaller, quieter, and have no "crumple zone". A small mistake by a motorist can result in serious injury or death to a cyclist. Motorists must respect the rights of other road users including cyclists.

Pass with Care

• Treat a cyclist as you would any slow moving vehicle. Pass only when the road ahead is clear.
• Slow down when passing, especially if the road is narrow.
• Give at least one metre of space between you and a cyclist when passing.
• Check over your shoulder before moving back into your travel lane to make sure you have left enough space.

Yield to Cyclists

• When turning left, yield to oncoming cyclists. Experienced cyclists can travel 30 to 40 km/hr and can be moving faster than you think.
• Do not make a right hand turn in front of cyclists. Assume they are travelling through unless they signal otherwise.

Watch for Cyclists

• Expect to see cyclists on roads. Cyclists may ride one metre from the edge, but can occupy any part of a lane if safety warrants e.g. to avoid obstacles, to turn left, or if the lane isn't wide enough for a motorist to safely pass.
• Check for cyclists before opening your car door.
• Children on bicycles are often unpredictable. Expect the unexpected and drive with caution.

Don't honk your horn - it can startle cyclists and cause them to swerve into traffic.

Check out the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website for more information on sharing the road with cyclists.

Message courtesy of the Nottawasaga Safe Cycling Committee