So far in May: 16 car-bike collisions

_ (via Ottawa Police) _ Ottawa roadways are seeing more cycling traffic with the warmer weather and the Ottawa Police and its Safer Roads Ottawa partners want to remind all road users to be aware of cyclists and share the road.

Between May 1 and May 12, there have been 16 collisions involving cyclists.

To increase the safety of cyclists, road users should: *       Treat bicycles as you would any other vehicle on the road.  Cyclists generally ride in the right-most through traffic lane, about one meter from the curb or parked cars. *       When passing a cyclist, leave a safe distance between your car and the bicycle.  Give extra passing distance during slippery road conditions. *       Pass at a moderate speed and give plenty of space on quiet roads. *       Shoulder check and signal all lane changes and turns. *       Check for bicycles in your side view mirror before opening your car doors.

Cycling enforcement was the focus of April’s Strategic Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP).

For everyone’s safety, cyclists are reminded to follow the rules of the road that apply to them under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act and the Ottawa Traffic and Parking Bylaw. These include: *       Stop at all stop signs and red lights. *       Use proper hand signalling when turning and stopping. *       Recognize and be mindful of the blind spots around cars, trucks and buses. *       Cycle on the right side of the road. *       Ride only in the designated direction on one-way streets. *       Do not drive on the sidewalk. *       Wear a helmet (required if under 18 years of age). *       Have a bell or horn on your bike. *       Be bright at night.  Use a headlight, taillight, reflectors and light-coloured or retro-reflective clothing so drivers can see you. *       Share the road with other users. *       Signal all lane changes, turns and stops.

Ottawa residents have identified traffic safety as a top priority. The Safer Roads Ottawa Program is committed to using available resources to make Ottawa roads safer for residents. The Safer Roads Ottawa Program is a leading community partnership between Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Public Health and the Public Works Department committed to preventing or eliminating road deaths and serious injuries for all people in the City of Ottawa, through culture change, community engagement, and development of a sustainable safe transportation environment.