As the weather shifts from the chill of winter to the milder temperatures of spring, more cyclists are taking to local roadways, sparking a surge in related traffic incidents. According to CityNews Everywhere, CycleWR, a cycling advocacy group, has observed an increase in cyclist-related collisions and is actively promoting safety measures and infrastructure improvements to combat this trend.
Patrick Bergsma, president of CycleWR, recently discussed with CityNews Kitchener various strategies that cyclists can employ to enhance their safety. Bergsma emphasized the importance of using hand signals and wearing reflective clothing to improve visibility. He also highlighted the necessity of having operational lights at both the front and back of bicycles.
Drivers also play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of cyclists. Bergsma advised drivers to give cyclists adequate space and reduce speed near cycling lanes. He stressed the importance of being vigilant around bike lanes, advising drivers to,
“Assume there is going to be someone there, whether the bike lane is painted green or not. Make it a good habit to look.”
In addition to behavioral changes, Bergsma believes that infrastructure enhancements are essential. He suggested focusing on intersections and exploring the introduction of features such as radial roundabouts, cyclist underpasses, and continuous crossings. Bergsma explained that radial roundabouts, which force a more direct entry angle rather than a sweeping curve, can significantly improve safety where different modes of traffic converge.
Some of these ideas are already being tested locally. For instance, a radial roundabout at the intersection of Strasburg Road and Huron Road in Kitchener is already in use, and the concept of pedestrian/cyclist underpasses is under consideration by municipal authorities.
Despite these initiatives, Bergsma noted that local infrastructure still lags behind cycling paradises like the Netherlands. He expressed a desire for further advancements in local biking infrastructure to enhance safety and encourage more people to choose cycling as a mode of transportation.
