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Issue # 99
November 2004 |
Welcome to Cyclometer, a monthly newsletter to keep cyclists informed about cycling issues and programs in the City of Toronto.
CONTENTS:
1) Private Members Bill 129 - helmets
Bill 129 proposes an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act as follows: "no person shall ride on or operate a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or other vehicle powered by muscular power, except a wheelchair, on a highway unless the person is wearing a helmet that complies with the regulations and the chin strap of the helmet is securely fastened under the chin." The proposed legislation would "not apply to a person who does not wear a helmet because to do so would interfere with his or her religious beliefs or practises."
The current Ontario helmet legislation applies only to cyclists - requiring that all cyclists under the age of 18 years must wear a helmet when riding on a highway. This Amendment would make it mandatory for all cyclists and users of other muscular-powered vehicles to wear a helmet regardless of age.
Bill 129 is a private members bill that was brought forward by M.P.P. John Molloy, Kitchener Center. The Bill passed second reading today and was referred to the Social Policy Committee for review. The Social Policy Committee will consider any amendments to the Bill and might ask for deputations from interested parties. Bill 129 would then be reported back to the House for third and final reading.
The text of the Bill can be found at www.ontla.on.ca
2) Cosburn Bike Lanes
The Cosburn Bike Lanes are completed. Check out the new road configuration on Cosburn Avenue between Broadview and Oak Park.
3) Cyclists, Pedestrians, Motorists and Construction
Road construction narrows space for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists. Through the construction zone, cyclists have two choices. Consider taking the full traffic lane if the lane is too narrow to share with a car (if safety and traffic speed allows). Or, if you are uncomfortable in doing that - please walk your bike on the sidewalk. Crowded sidewalks have no room for a cyclist riding at any speed. Please walk your bike on the sidewalk - it's the law.
Through construction zones, motorists yield to the cyclist ahead and yield to pedestrians at intersections or any other pinch points.
4) The Plan for Bikes at Union Station
On Monday November 1, 2004, Toronto City Councillors reviewed the plans for the redevelopment of Union Station as well as the amendment, written by former Councillor Jack Layton, that cycling facilities be considered every step of the way.
In his own words; "It is further recommended that discussions with the proponent include: (1) the development of an ambitious plan for cycling facilities, cycling rentals and service, modeled on best practices from Europe, and further, that there be consultation with the City's Cycling Committee and staff of the Works and Emergency Services Department."
After a first read of the full report, available at www.toronto.ca/union_station, Toronto Cycling Committee member, Martin Koob, Toronto Cycling Committee member, reports that the intention to accommodate all modes of transportation is clear but details on how cyclists will fit into the final plan are yet to come. The 'Vision' section of the full report says, "Bicyclists should be accommodated through the introduction of appropriately located secured bicycle control areas, amenities and facilities." Union Pearson Group, the proponent delivering the new plan, has offered to meet with the Cycling Committee in 2005 to further develop a plan for the amenities and facilities.
5) Cyclists and Demerit Points
Does the demerit point system apply to cycling offences under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA)? In a word, NO. But does it happen? Yes, it can. Here's how it works. Cyclists and motorists can be charged under the HTA, with similar fines applying to both ($90 for most infractions).
Section 56 of the HTA allows the province to cancel or suspend drivers' licenses through a demerit point system. However, this applies only to infractions committed while driving a motor vehicle or streetcar. In order to avoid demerit points inadvertently being assigned to your drivers license for an infraction committed on your bicycle, the following must occur:
- The police officer laying the charge must write "bicycle" in the vehicle type box on the Provincial Offenses Notice.
- If you go to court, the courts must indicate "bicycle" in the vehicle type box on the conviction notice.
If the Provincial Offenses Notice or the conviction notice is received by the Ministry of Transportation without the "bicycle" designation, demerit points will be assigned to the driving record of the individual. If this happens, call the Driver Improvement Office at 416-235-1086 to have the error corrected. Better still, follow the rules and you won't get a ticket in the first place.
6) Night-time Riding
As winter approaches, fewer daylight hours, reduced visibility from snow, sleet and freezing rain, and challenging road conditions may make other drivers less aware of the cyclists that they share the road with. A few simple tips can help make winter cycling safer and more enjoyable for Toronto cyclists.
While proper lighting for cyclists is required under the Highway Traffic Act, winter cycling presents special challenges. As shorter days mean more nighttime riding for cyclists, carry spare batteries for your lights. Consider adding a flashing red light to your jacket in addition to the one on your bike. Add reflective tape to your bicycle and helmet wherever possible.
Your clothing choices will also affect how visible you are. Wearing a brightly coloured, reflective jacket over your other winter layers will make you as visible as your bicycle is, while providing you with an extra layer of warmth. Reflective ankle-wraps are an eye-catching, reflective accessory, moving with your legs as you peddle. Attaching reflective patches to clothing or wearing a reflective vest will help to increase your visibility.
Finally, it is important to ensure that you are cycling as visibly and predictably as possible. Cycling in a straight line, signaling clearly and being aware of the blind spots of other road users will increase your chances of being seen on the road. Ride safe this winter and before you cycle at night take a moment to consider your visibility and increase it wherever possible!
7) Ontario Cycling Association celebration at Olympic Spirit with Olympic medallist Marie-Helene Premont
Celebrate cycling with the OCA on November 20, 2004, at the new Olympic Spirit complex at Yonge & Dundas. Tickets range from $15-$30 and include entry into the Olympic Spirit Toronto, hors d'oeuvres, a slide show presentation featuring the year in racing within Ontario and by Ontario athletes worldwide and an opportunity to mingle with Canadian Olympians including silver medallist Marie-Helene Premont. To order tickets call 416.426.7416.
7) Ahead in the Bike Lane
Toronto Cycling Committee
Monday November 15, 2004, City Hall Cttee Rm #1, 7p.m.
Communications and Promotions Subcommittee
Thursday November 18, 2004, City Hall Cttee Rm #3, 7p.m.
Education and Safety Subcommittee
Monday November 29, 2004, City Hall Cttee Rm #3, 7p.m.
Road and Trails Subcommittee
Wednesday November 24, 2004, City Hall Cttee Rm #3, 7p.m.
The City has a vision for cycling in Toronto and wants you involved in making it happen. Cyclometer is a subscription service of the City of Toronto.
The first issue of Cyclometer went out on November 24, 1989. Now, as then, we hope that, like its namesake, Cyclometer will show you how far we've come, how fast we're going, and maybe how much pedalling we have yet to do. So get on board and get involved. Your support is important.
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