When cycling, rules apply, such as obeying signs and signals and traffic lights. Some things are also prohibited, like riding on sidewalks—except in case of necessity or where directed or authorized to do so by a sign or signal—and riding while wearing earphones or headphones, or while texting. If you commit an offence under the Highway Safety Code, you could receive a fine.
Under the Highway Safety Code, cyclists must, among other things:
Cyclists must obey traffic signs and traffic lights at all times. For example, they must come to a complete stop at a red light or stop sign, even if the way is clear.
At a red light, they must wait for the light to turn green again before continuing, or wait for the pedestrian light. In this case, cyclists are allowed to continue on the condition that they:
Important: Cyclists may not cross at a pedestrian crossing where traffic signs prohibit them from doing so.
If an intersection contains a traffic sign prohibiting right turns at a red light, cyclists are prohibited from turning right when the light is red, even if a pedestrian light is on.
At a pedestrian crossing, stop as soon as a pedestrian enters the crosswalk or clearly indicates the intention to do so, for example, by waiting on the sidewalk next to the pedestrian crosswalk, by making a hand gesture indicating the desire to cross, by establishing eye contact, etc.
At an intersection, yield the right of way to pedestrians, vehicles and other cyclists that have priority.
Stop at least 5 metres from a school bus or minibus with its flashing red lights or stop sign in operation, and do not proceed until the red lights are off and the stop sign is retracted.
Ride as close as possible to the right side of the roadway, taking into account the condition of the road and the risk of doors opening, and in the same direction as traffic. Cyclists can leave this position:
On the shoulder, ride in the same direction as traffic or the direction indicated by traffic signs.
Signal your intentions without interruption and over a sufficient distance to make sure that other users have seen you, unless doing so endangers your safety.
In a group, ride in single file (not side by side):
Cyclists must ride astride the bicycle (one leg on each side) and hold the handlebars.
The Highway Safety Code prohibits cyclists from riding:
It is also prohibited:
| Examples of offences | Penalties |
|---|---|
Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign | $80 to $100 |
Turning right at a red light where prohibited by a sign | $80 to $100 |
Failing to yield the right of way at an intersection to users who have priority | $80 to $100 |
Riding with earphones or headphones that cover one or both ears | $80 to $100 |
| Riding while using a portable electronic device—whether hand held or not—unless it displays information that is relevant to riding a bicycle, in which case it must be mounted on a bracket that is attached to the bicycle | $80 to $100 |
Failing to signal one's intentions, unless it is dangerous to do so | $80 to $100 |
Riding two on a bicycle without a fixed seat for that purpose | $80 to $100 |
Last update: May 30, 2022
