Bike Smart in Niagara: Cycling Safety 101

Cycling through Niagara is a great way to get around—whether you’re commuting, heading to school, or just enjoying a scenic ride. But riding safely takes more than just hopping on your bike. It’s about being seen, being predictable, and sharing the road with respect.

Be Visible, Be Predictable

Niagara’s roads are shared by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—and visibility is key to staying safe.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing—especially at dawn, dusk, or in low-light conditions.
• Equip your bike with a white front light and red rear light, as well as reflectors.
• Use hand signals to communicate when turning or stopping.
• Ride in a straight line and don’t weave between parked cars or into traffic unexpectedly.

Predictability helps drivers anticipate your movements—and helps prevent crashes.

Know the Rules of the Road

Just like drivers, cyclists have a responsibility to follow traffic laws in Ontario.

• Stop at stop signs and obey all traffic signals.
• Ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as traffic.
• Yield to pedestrians and be cautious around crosswalks and school zones.
• If using sidewalks (where permitted), ride slowly and yield to foot traffic.

Respecting the rules builds trust and makes the roads safer for everyone.

Protect Your Head—Always

• Helmets are legally required for riders under 18 in Ontario—but smart cyclists of all ages wear them.
• Make sure your helmet fits properly and sits level on your head.
• Replace helmets that have been in a crash or are more than 5–7 years old.

Wearing a helmet can reduce your risk of head injury by up to 85%—a no-brainer, literally.

Share the Space

A little courtesy goes a long way on the road.

• Make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians whenever possible.
• Use your bell or voice to alert others when passing.
• Watch for car doors opening into the bike lane—stay about 1 metre from parked cars when riding.

And if you’re a driver: remember to leave at least 1 metre of space when passing cyclists—it’s the law in Ontario.

Want to Learn More?

CAA Niagara offers tips and resources to help new riders build skills and confidence. Whether you're new to cycling or a seasoned road rider, there's always something to learn.

Let’s make Niagara a safer, more bike-friendly community—together.