Question the Constable! is a segment the Sunshine Coast RCMP features weekly. Residents can email or Tweet their questions related to the RCMP on the Coast via email: [email protected] or via Twitter: @COAST_RCMP.
Question: Are bicycle riders required to stop for red lights and stop signs like motor vehicles are?
Answer: Yes, the Motor Vehicle Act states that, “a person operating a cycle on a highway has the same rights and duties as a driver of a vehicle.”
With the days getting longer, and warmer weather making a return, there are once again more bicycles on our roads, and it is important that both drivers and cyclists understand the rules governing cyclists on our roadways, to ensure everyone’s safety. Here are some key reminders. Cyclists must:
• Ride as near as practicable to the right side of the highway (share the road)
• Ride in single file if riding with other cyclists
• Keep at least one hand on the handlebars
• Use proper lights and reflectors if riding when dark
• Remain at the scene of an accident if it was caused by the presence or operation of a bicycle and resulted in injury or property damage. The cyclist must provide his or her name and address to anyone sustaining loss or injury.
Anyone who has spent time cycling knows how exposed cyclists are to the potential dangers of passing cars. Although as a driver you may think you are giving the cyclist plenty of room, your vehicle likely feels much closer to the cyclist than the cyclist seems to you. It only takes one pothole or piece of debris on the roadway to cause the cyclist to unexpectedly swerve out into the roadway.
If you have to wait for 30 seconds until there’s a place you can safely pass the bicycle, take the time, for cyclists everywhere will undoubtedly be grateful for the added room, and will feel that much safer when they are out enjoying our roadways.
