JULY ROAD SAFETY THEME: Share the Road

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With the warmer weather, drivers are no doubt seeing more bicycles and motorcycles on the roadways. The North Grenville Road Safety Committee is encouraging drivers and cyclists to share the road, and be courteous and respectful of one another.

Cyclists and motorcyclist are more likely to be injured or killed in a collision because they do not have the safeguards when it comes to protection.

Be extra careful when passing cyclists on undivided roads. Passing them too closely can cause the rider to lose control. Always ensure you leave at least one-metre distance between the vehicle and bike when passing them. It’s the law.

Motorcycle and bicycle riders may also need to react quickly to poor or unforeseen road and weather conditions.

Because of their size, motorcycles and bicycles are harder to see. When driving near a cyclist or motorcyclist, be alert, always signal and check your blind spots before making a turn or changing lanes. Check twice for motorcyclists and cyclists in the incoming lane before you turn left; and yield to cyclists continuing straight before you turn right.

For the safety of motorcycle and bicycle riders it is recommended they make eye contact with motorists, use hand signals and always signal lane changes. Other safety tips include, wearing bright colours to be more visible to other motorists, and always be alert.

The Road Safety public awareness campaign aims to promote safe driving behaviours and make roads in North Grenville safer for all users.

The North Grenville Road Safety Campaign Committee is comprised of the Municipality of North Grenville, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, the Grenville County Ontario Provincial Police, and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

For more details on the campaign visit www.northgrenville.ca/roadsafety.

Safety tips for Cyclists:

  • Be Heard – Use your bell, horn, hand signals or voice to communicate that you are passing or approaching.
  • Be protected, wear a helmet – a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a fall or collision.

Safety tips for Motorcycle riders:

  • Don’t follow too closely. Leaving space gives you time to manoeuvre and avoid a collision.
  • Slow down and be extra vigilant at intersections.

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