Cyclists And The Law

Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA)

A bicycle is considered a vehicle in the HTA and so cyclists must obey all traffic laws just like other road users. However there are some provincial laws that apply only to cyclists. The following is a list of these laws and the section(s) of the HTA under which these rules fall. Unless otherwise noted, fines are usually $105 ($90 fine + $15 victim surcharge).

LIGHTS

62. (17) When cycling between one half hour before sunset and one half hour after sunrise, or any other time when there is insufficient light, a bicycle must have a white front light and a red rear light or reflector as well as white reflective tape on the front forks and red reflective tape on the rear forks. (Fine: not more than $20.)

BRAKES

64. (3) A bicycle must have at least one brake system on the rear wheel. When applied, the bike should skid on dry pavement.

BELL

75. (5) A bicycle must be equipped with an "alarm bell, gong or horn" in good working order.

HELMET

104. (2.1) Cyclists 17 years old and under are required to wear a bicycle helmet that complies with the regulations and the chinstrap of the helmet must be securely fastened under the chin. (Fine: $65 fine + $10 victim surcharge = $75) 104. (2.2) Parents will be held responsible for "knowingly" allowing children under the age of sixteen to ride without a helmet. (Fine: $65 fine + $10 victim surcharge = $75)

CROSSWALKS AND INTERSECTIONS

140. (6) and 144. (29) Riding a bike within a pedestrian crossover or intersection is not permitted.

SIGNALLING

142. (4) Left-hand turns: extend the left hand and arm horizontally and beyond the left side of the bike. Right-hand turns: extend the left hand and arm upward and beyond the left side of the bike or extend the right hand and arm horizontally and beyond the right side of the bike

POSITIONING

147 and 148. If travelling at less than the normal speed of traffic, where practicable, a cyclist must drive in the right-hand lane or as close as practicable to the right edge of the road, except when preparing to turn left or when passing another vehicle.

DOORING

165. It is illegal for drivers or passengers to open their car doors without first making sure the action will not endanger a cyclist or any other person or vehicle.

ATTACHING TO A VEHICLE

178. (1) A cyclist is not permitted to attach him/her self to the outside of another vehicle for the purpose of hitching a ride.

PASSENGERS

178. (2) "Doubleriding" is prohibited on bicycles designed for one person.

IDENTIFICATION

218. (1) A police officer finding anyone contravening this Act or any municipal by-law regulating traffic while riding a bicycle may require that person to stop and provide identification. Giving one's correct name and address is sufficient identification.

SIDEWALK RIDING

Toronto By-law 17. (1) No person riding a bicycle shall ride it on the sidewalk if at least one tire size is more than 24 inches (61 cm).