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July 2009
Biking in the urban jungle
Myth 3: I can listen to my Ipod when I ride my bike if I set the volume low enough.
Wrong. You are never allowed to wear headphones or earphones when riding a bicycle, not even in only one ear. Even soft music can be distracting and you need to stay alert! The fine for this offence can run as high $60 plus fees.
Myth 4: Since I am not driving a car, I have the same right of way as pedestrians.
Wrong. Pedestrians have priority over cyclists. If you are at an intersection and pedestrians want cross, you cannot cut them off. Even if the traffic light is green, you have to be patient and wait until they have crossed. Also, like drivers of cars, you have to watch for pedestrians before turning right. And no, the little white man at an intersection does not mean that you can cross. It is only for pedestrians!
Myth 5: I can ride anywhere I want on the road if I go as fast as a car and wear a helmet.
Wrong. Cyclists have to ride on the extreme right-hand side of the road. Of course, if this lane is blocked by a delivery truck or parked car, you can move to the middle lane to pass. But once you’ve moved ahead of the obstacle, you have to go back to the right-hand side of the road. You're also not allowed to zig-zag between cars, even if your head is protected by a helmet!
