Photo via Ontario Ministry of Transportation
As the sun
sets earlier and the fall nights get longer, it is increasingly important that
cyclists ride with caution and care. One of the most important cautions for
cyclists is to maintain high visibility to other road users and pedestrians at
all times. The following tips from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation are
recommended to keep you safe as you cycle!
Lighting – It is required, by law that your
bicycle be equipped with a working front white light and rear red light or
reflector. These lights should be in use as you ride between one half hour
before sunset and one half hour following sunrise. The law also requires
cyclists to have white reflective strips on the front forks and red reflective
strips on the rear stays of their bicycle.
Clothing – Bright coloured clothing, such as
yellow and white will help cyclists be seen at night. Wearing reflective
materials on your wrists, ankles and heels, as well as pedal and helmet
reflective will help motorists see you.
Be heard – By law, cyclists are required to
have a working bell or horn to warn other cyclists, motorists and pedestrians
as they are approaching them. It is also recommended that cyclists verbally
communicate their intended actions when approaching other cyclists and
pedestrians in order to avoid collision and injuries.
Remain alert at dawn and dusk – When riding at dawn and dusk, it is
important that riders take extra caution and remain alert when scanning and
entering intersections. As you ride directly into or away from the sun, be sure
to leave extra space and be ready to stop suddenly as traffic around you may
swerve or make abrupt stops.
Cycling can
be a fun and relaxing activity, however, it requires extra caution and care
when riding at dawn or dusk. Remember to maintain high visibility be prepared,
be safe, be seen and be heard.
For more
information and tips on how you can maintain high visibility when riding, visit
http://bit.ly/1aaqAs5.
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