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Biking in the urban jungle

You can never forget how to ride a bike. But cyclists tend to get forget the rules of the road. Are you allowed to ride on the sidewalk? Can you cross an intersection when the “little white man” appears but the traffic light is still red? Who has the right of way in traffic?

Not knowing the rules of the road when you're on a bike can lead to accidents, near misses and traffic tickets. Tickets can range from $15 to $30 (plus fees) for each offence, not to mention that you can put your safety and the safety of others at risk.

A lot of cyclists think they can do what they like because they're on a bike. Let's take a closer look at some common misconceptions.

Myth 1: When there is too much traffic on the street, I can ride my bike on the sidewalk.

Wrong. Cyclists are not allowed to ride on the sidewalk, except in special circumstances. You can ride on the sidewalk only when it is really necessary, or when a sign indicates that you should. You can always walk beside your bicycle on the sidewalk, in which case you are considered to be a pedestrian.


Myth 2: If the traffic light is red, but there is no one at the intersection, I can cross.

Wrong. Cyclists must respect red lights and stop signs just like everyone else. If you get a ticket for breaking this rule, you will have to pay a fine and will loose three points off your driver’s licence. You don’t have a licence? The offence will be recorded in your file, and if you get a driver’s licence within the next three years, these points are automatically deducted from your new licence.

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!