Summer is here and so are the cyclists

CAA North & East Ontario
News Release

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Ottawa - This summer, cars and trucks will be sharing the road with an increasing number of cyclists as the sun continues to shine and temperatures start to rise. CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) is committed to making Canada’s roads safer for everybody, not just motorists.

Automotive collisions with cyclists continue to be a serious and sometimes deadly problem on our roads. According to the Provincial Government’s Road Safety Annual Report, there is an average of 3,000 collisions per year involving cyclists on Ontario roads. The most recent report indicates that in 2006 there were 2,993 collisions involving cyclists on Ontario roads, resulting in 2,415 injuries and tragically, 31 deaths.

“CAANEO urges all Canadian motorists to be vigilant, focused and aware of everyone on the road, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation,” said Korey Kennedy, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for CAANEO. “Respecting the rights of every person on the road will help to ensure a safer environment for motorists and cyclists alike.”

Here are a few helpful tips for keeping motorists and cyclists safe this summer.

If you’re driving:

*Remember that it is illegal to drive or park in a designated bike lane.

*Avoid distractions and always be vigilant for any cyclists turning onto the road or biking alongside your vehicle.

*Before reversing out of or turning into a drive-way, be sure to check your mirrors and blind spots carefully, as smaller bicycles can sometimes be difficult to spot.

*Leave a safe distance between your vehicle and the bicycle when passing a cyclist. Be even more cautious when road conditions are slippery and wet.

*Always check for any approaching cyclists before opening your car door.

If you’re cycling:

*Learn the proper hand signals and always use them when making a turn.

*Always ride single-file with other cyclists, and keep to the right side of the road.

*When biking at night, ensure that your bike is equipped with at least two lights (a white one in the front and a red one in the back). Also, your bicycle must be equipped with white reflective tape on the front forks and red reflective tape on the rear forks.

*Ensure your bike is outfitted with either a bell or a horn in good working order.

*Stay Safe- wear a helmet! Although Ontario law requires every cyclist under the age of eighteen to wear an approved bicycle helmet, it is also highly recommended that all cyclists, regardless of age, wear an approved bicycle helmet.

By following these simple and sensible tips, you can do your part to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Canadian road users!

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