It's Cycling Season: CAA North & East Ontario Urges All Road Users to Be Safe This Summer

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 16, 2011) - As we approach the summer months, high gas prices coupled with the warm weather mean that more people will be sharing the local roadways. With cyclists across the province ready to take advantage of the warmth and sunshine, CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) remains committed to making roads safer for everyone, not just motorists.

Unfortunately, automotive collisions involving cyclists continue to be a serious and sometimes fatal problem on our roadways. According to the latest Ontario Road Safety Annual Report, in 2007 there were 3,267 collisions involving cyclists throughout the province, resulting in 2,520 injuries and 20 deaths.

"All road users, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation, have a responsibility to help ensure the safety of others on the road with them," said Korey Kennedy, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for CAANEO. "CAANEO urges motorists and cyclists alike to be vigilant of their surroundings and aware of everyone on the road. Respecting the rights of every person on the road will help to mitigate future tragedies and ensure a safer environment for all road users."

CAANEO offers the following tips to help keep motorists and cyclists safe this summer.

If you're in a motorized vehicle:

• Remember that it is illegal to drive or park in a designated bike lane.

• Be aware of any cyclists turning onto the road or travelling alongside your vehicle.

• When passing a cyclist, ensure that you leave a safe distance between your vehicle and the bicycle. Exercise greater caution when the road conditions are slippery and wet.

• Always check for approaching cyclists before opening your car door.

If you're on a bicycle:

• Learn the proper hand signals and always use them when making a turn.

• Always ride single-file with other cyclists and keep to the right side of the road. Remember that slower traffic must give way to faster traffic when it is safe and practical to do so.

• By law, your bicycle must be equipped with at least two lights – a white one on the front and a red one on the back – between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise. Also, your bicycle must have white reflective tape on the front forks and red reflective tape on the rear stays.

• If using a crosswalk, remember to walk your bike across. It is illegal to ride a bicycle across a crosswalk.

• Though provincial law requires all cyclists under the age of 18 to wear an approved helmet, it is highly recommended that all cyclists, regardless of age, wear an approved bicycle helmet.

Following these simple tips can help to ensure the safety of all road users during these summer months.

For more than 100 years, the Canadian Automobile Association has provided travel, emergency road services, insurance and advocacy for its Members. CAA North & East Ontario continues to be the leading membership organization by recognizing and promoting its heritage and integrity in the community, while maximizing value for Members.