Now that Spring is in full swing, Prince George residents may dust off the ole’ two-wheeler that’s been sitting in the garage all winter.
Whether that be a bicycle or a motorcycle, the Prince George RCMP are focusing on safe use of those items this month.
Members from the detachment's Municipal Traffic Services have already been targetting cyclists, riders, and drivers since April 1 that have failed to comply with the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA).
"Our officers will be out on bikes and in vehicles targeting those persons that make bicycling and motorcycling unsafe in our community," says RCMP Sgt. Matthew LaBelle in a statement. "Let's all do our part to keep all road users safe throughout the riding season."
Police are offering the following reminders for those unsure of what do to when it comes to sharing the road:
DRIVERS
- Do not park in designated bike lanes marked with No Stopping signs; this is a violation and puts cyclists at extra risk
- Do not use a bike lane as a turning lane; under the Motor Vehicle Act, a driver cannot drive in a designated bike lane prior to the turn itself;
- Do not engage in negative driving behaviour that directly impacts cyclists and/or motorcyclists; this includes distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, follow too closely and other violations;
- Always check mirrors and over shoulders to minimize blind spots.
CYCLISTS
- Always wear a helmet; failing to wear a helmet is a violation under the MVA. A helmet is designed to protect your head in a collision or crash;
- Do not ride on sidewalks; sidewalks are for pedestrians including those that choose to walk their bike on sidewalks. If you choose to ride your bike, ride it on the road and obey traffic laws.
- Do not run through stop signs; MVA laws apply to cyclists too.
- Ride in a designated bike lane and on designated bike routes in the same direction as vehicles. Where there are no designated bike lanes, ride as far right as possible without putting your safety at risk;
- Always use high visibility clothing when riding in traffic.
MOTORCYCLISTS
- Always use high visibility clothing when riding;
- Do not ride in blind spots;
- Be predictable; quick movements can cause drivers to react suddenly, putting all road users at risk.
