Cycling Safely
By Public Health Agency of Canada
Here’s the deal. If you’re going to ride a bike, you need to observe a few rules to keep you safe from injuries:
Do a bike check.
Before you start pedaling, make sure your bicycle is in good condition. Are your brakes working? Is the seat secure and the right height? Your bike should also have a bell, light and a reflector so other people on the road can hear and see you.
Gear up.
Wear a bike helmet. Check to make sure it is on properly. You want the helmet to be level on your head, not tilted back or sideways and you want the strap to be snug. Try the two-finger salute. Your fingers should cover the space between your helmet and eyebrows, as well as the space between your chin and the chin strap.
Follow the rules of the road.
Learn the rules of the road and obey them. Like people who drive cars, cyclists must ride in the same direction as the road traffic, stop at red lights and stop signs, use signals, and yield to pedestrians.
Slow down.
Don’t speed – it’s very dangerous, especially on wet, slippery roads.
Ride single-file.
When cycling with friends, ride in a line, not side by side.
Use hand signals.
Using the proper hand signals tells other users of the road if you are planning to turn left or right, or if
you are about to stop.
Plan your route.
Before you head out, map the safest route with as few cars as possible. If you can, use bike lanes or paths.
2600 John Street, Unit 207, Markham, ON L3R 3W3 T: 905.475.5222 F: 905.475.6369
