FORT McMURRAY — Wood Buffalo RCMP are reminding cyclists and motorists to share the road and watch for each other as warmer weather brings more bicycles onto streets and pathways.
Police say cyclists under 18 are required to wear an approved helmet meeting ANSI, Snell or CSA safety standards.
Bicycles must also be equipped with a front headlamp, red taillamp and red rear reflector when being operated at night.
Cyclists using shared-use pathways are required to use an audible warning device, such as a bell, when passing pedestrians.
RCMP are encouraging cyclists to travel at safe speeds, yield to pedestrians and avoid riding while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Unless otherwise posted, bicycles with wheels larger than 50 centimetres in diameter are not permitted on sidewalks.
Police say cyclists travelling in groups on roadways should ride single-file to improve their ability to avoid traffic and navigate obstacles.
Motorists are being reminded to provide cyclists with reasonable space when passing and to check mirrors and shoulder-check for approaching bicycles before turning or changing lanes.
Police say some municipal bylaws require drivers to provide between one and 1.5 metres of space when passing cyclists, depending on vehicle speed.
Drivers are also being reminded to avoid impaired and distracted driving and remain patient around cyclists.
“Safe roads begin with mutual respect between cyclists and motorists,” acting Wood Buffalo RCMP officer in charge Insp. Troy Switzer said.
“Whether on two wheels or four, respect saves lives. Road safety isn’t about who has the right of way, it’s about everyone making it home.”
RCMP say motorists and cyclists share responsibility for reducing collisions and keeping Fort McMurray roads safe during the summer cycling season.
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