Pedestrian and cyclist safety

Be a smart pedestrian

Pedestrians share the responsibility of ensuring safe travel. Here are tips on how pedestrians can reach their destinations safely:

• Be alert
• Know and follow all traffic rules, signs and signals
• Use designated crossing spots when crossing the street
• Try to make eye contact with drivers in stopped vehicles to ensure that they see you before crossing in front of them
• At night, wear light and reflective coloured clothing so that drivers can see you
• If you are wearing earphones, make sure that you can still hear the traffic around you

Bike safety basics

Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Here are tips on how cyclists can empower themselves and ensure safety while traveling:

• Under the Highway Traffic Act, slow-moving vehicles such as bicycles should stay in the right lane or as close to the right side of the road or curb as practicable
• Wear a helmet and, by law, all cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet
• Use hand signals while turning and stopping
• Attach lights or reflectors to bicycles to increase visibility for others on the road at night
• Obey all traffic laws

Be a safe driver

Drivers have the responsibility to ensure the safety of others on the road. Here are tips on how drivers can promote safe traveling:

• Look out for pedestrians at all times
• Watch for and give right of way to pedestrians and cyclists when backing out of driveways
• Make sure your lights are on and give signals properly
• Be aware of cyclists and bicycle lanes
• Always follow posted speed limits
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Always yield to pedestrian crosswalks

Visual guides