More people are cycling during this pandemic, prompting a police reminder “to follow the rules of the road.”
This spring, “we’re seeing a real increase in bicycle traffic,” said Const. Derek Turner, with the Red Deer RCMP community policing section.
While cycling is a great way of getting exercise and spending time with friends and family, more bikes on roads and trails increases the potential for accidents and injuries, Turner added.
Red Deer RCMP have noticed many cyclists failing to follow basic traffic laws: “Riders have been observed ignoring traffic signs, cycling against the flow of oncoming traffic, and failing to signal their turns.”
Turner stressed that anyone who gets on a bike is responsible for knowing and following many of the same traffic rules that apply to vehicle drivers.
· Riders and passengers under age 18 must wear an approved, properly fitted helmet with a chinstrap.
· Front and rear lights are mandatory for riding at dusk, night or in low-visibility conditions (rain, fog)
· Use proper hand signals to indicate turns and lane changes.
· Keep a safe distance from the curb and parked cars.
· Stop for all stop signs and red lights, and always yield to pedestrians.
· Always ride with traffic, on the right side of the road.
· Be alert and careful at intersections, where most collisions happen.
· Ride predictably, in a straight line.
· Make sure your bike is in good working order (especially the brakes).