EBTC Safety Program: "Ride Safely; Make Safety Your Priority"
How To Ride Safely:
- Cycle single file except when passing*
- Stay close to the shoulder; riding in the middle of the road is a NO-NO.
- Leave adequate space between cyclists; draft only when riders around you are experienced & comfortable cycling closer; pull up to draft behind another cyclist ONLY with their awareness and explicit approval. Note: The cyclist following is responsible and at fault in an accident.
- Be visible: wear bright colors (yellow, orange); have headlight and taillight (use in overcast or rainy conditions as well as after dusk)**
- Be aware: watch for other cyclists; watch for vehicles ahead and behind; have an escape route, preferably to the right to a shallow ditch
- Communicate with other riders and pedestrians (walkers; runners)***
- call out when passing (on the left)
- when you wish to turn, slow or stop, use hand and verbal (louder) signals
- call out to other riders when vehicles ahead and behind
- alert other riders to hazards on the road: point out
- call out to pedestrians that you are approaching especially if from behind***
*Twin riding: this may be safe when done by experienced riders but is contrary to the Alberta Highways Act
**Highways Act requires you to have a light if riding half an hour from sunset Last revised spring 2019
***Highways Act requires you to have a noise-making device on your bike (such as a bell)
