It is critical for bicyclists to know whether bicycles have to follow the same laws as motorcyclists– critical for both your well-being and for your legal responsibilities. The answer to the question do bicycles have to follow the same laws a motorcyclist is a resounding yes. Bicyclists are required to follow the law as set out under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act and its cycling guidelines section. You have all the same responsibilities—and rights—as everyone else on the road.
Laws for Bicycles on the Road in Ontario
Ontario has specific legal requirements for bicyclists. They are required to exercise the same caution as motor vehicles, including motorcycles, and can receive fines and penalties for failing to do so. The key concepts included in the Ontario Highway Traffic Act’s bicycling section include:
Obeying Traffic Signals and Signs
Bicyclists are required—by law—to stop for all red lights (and amber when you are physically capable of doing so), stop signs and all other marked traffic signs. The penalty for failing to do so is a set fine of $85.00. Streets Marked One-Way Bicyclists face a fine of $85.00 for not riding in the designated direction of the one-way street.
Slow-Moving Traffic Rule
Bicycles are considered slow-moving traffic and as such as required to drive on the right-hand lane, with the exception of when making left-hand turns or overtaking another vehicle. This rule also carries an $85.00 fine.
Signalling
Ontario bicyclists are required to signal (either with installed directional indicators or with their arm) before turning and to look to ensure that the path is clear and safe to do so. This also carries an $85.00 penalty.
Pedestrian Crosswalks
As a vehicle on the road you are required to yield or stop for pedestrians at all marked crosswalks. You are allowed to cross via pedestrian crosswalks but must walk the bicycle across the walk. Failure to stop or dismount carries an $85.00 fine.
Streetcars, Buses and School Buses
In cities like Toronto where there are streetcars you must stop at least two meters behind the doors and wait until the way is entirely clear of pedestrians and passengers before you may proceed. For public transit buses you also must wait for passengers to board or disembark before proceeding, but you may pass them on the left-hand side. Both of these carry $85.00 penalties. Failure to stop for stopped school buses carries a $400.00 penalty.
Required Bicycle Equipment: Lights, Horns and Brakes
Bicyclists travelling 30 minutes before sunset and/or 30 minutes after sunrise must equip their bicycle with functional lights: a white light in the front and a red light (or reflector) in the rear. Failure to have operational lights carries a $20.00 fine. Failure to equip your bike with a working horn or bell carries an $85.00 fine. You bicycle must have a working brake on at least the rear wheel (although additional front brakes are recommended for safety)–failing to do so carries a fine of $85.00.
Helmets
While it is recommended that all bicyclists wear an approved protective helmet it is a law for anyone under the age of eighteen. Parents and guardians knowingly permitting a child to ride without a helmet are liable for a $60.00 fine. So, do bicycles have to follow the same laws as a motorcyclist? YES. But just as you are bound by the law and its regulations you are also entitled to the same rights of everyone else on the road—especially in the matter of bicycle accidents. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident call us today, your personal injury lawyers in Whitby, to know your legal rights and whether you are entitled for compensation.
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately all too common. If you are struck by a motor vehicle while a cyclist, you may have the right to a claim for income loss, damages, medical expenses etc..
Call Jane Conte at Conte & Associates, Personal Injury Lawyers, your expert personal injury lawyer in Whitby, Oshawa and surrounding areas. I will offer a fee-free case assessment that can help determine which option is right for you.
