New rules are in now in place so that motorists no longer will feel they’re being overly cautious by giving cyclists a wide berth when they pass.
As of Monday (June 3), people driving cars and trucks must give pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs, and electric kick scooters at least a metre of space if they’re within the city, on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, said the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
On roads with speed limits above 50 km/h, a distance of a metre and a half is needed.
However, cyclists or others in a separated bike lane on in a sidewalk need only half a metre of space.
“The new regulations emphasize sharing the road and taking precautions to ensure a safer journey for vulnerable road users and encourages active and sustainable modes of transportation,” said Dr. Emily Newhouse, medical health officer with Fraser Health, said in a news release.
If motorists can’t pass safely, they must slow down and wait until it’s safe to pass.
Motorists who don’t keep the required distance, can be fined $368 and three driver penalty points.
In April, the ministry also created a new light class of e-bikes that only go 25 km-h, and with a minimum user age of 14.
Cyclists and e-cyclists have to wear helmets, keep to the right, ride single file, use hand signals and use front and back lights and reflectors at night. Passengers are not allowed unless the vehicle is designed for that.
