Ottawa Police have released new statistics that show 16 collisions involving cyclists taking place on city streets in just two weeks.

The numbers were calculated from May 1st to May 12th - the same time warmer weather arrived in the capital.

Police said fortunately none of these incidents resulted in a fatality, but going forward they are warning drivers and cyclists to share the road.

 “Whether it be motorists of the cyclists because there’s a lot that the cyclists do that are wrong but there are a lot of things cyclists do wrong as well,” said Cst. Chuck Benoit.

Cyclist James Rimmer is a big advocate for safe cycling after he was struck while riding. He said the drivers hit his front wheel just missing his leg.

“I don’t know if he didn’t see me or didn’t care but he drove right into my front wheel, I was thankfully going slow enough that he only broke my front wheel,” said Rimmer.

Rimmer said that’s not the first time he has had a close-call with a vehicle. He said Bank Street worries him in particular, as drivers are often too close to cyclists.

Bank is one of several locations cyclists raised concerns about.

“Don’t take Bronson, I live downtown and taking Bronson was really a bad, bad place to bike,” said cyclist Rick Goodwin.

Cst. Benoit said both cyclists and drivers need to use extra caution in construction areas.

“The whole city of Ottawa, there’s a lot of parts under construction, so we have to be looking to where we have to go, where we are commuting to, so to educate themselves prior to leaving the house with their bike, they have to look what’s under construction,” he added.

Ottawa police have released some tips for both drivers and cyclists.

To increase the safety of cyclists, road users should:

·         Treat bicycles as you would any other vehicle on the road.  Cyclists generally ride in the right-most through traffic lane, about one meter from the curb or parked cars.

·         When passing a cyclist, leave a safe distance between your car and the bicycle.  Give extra passing distance during slippery road conditions.

·         Pass at a moderate speed and give plenty of space on quiet roads.

·         Shoulder check and signal all lane changes and turns.

·         Check for bicycles in your side view mirror before opening your car doors.

 

For everyone's safety, cyclists are reminded to follow the rules of the road that apply to them under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act and the Ottawa Traffic and Parking Bylaw. These include:

 

·         Stop at all stop signs and red lights.

·         Use proper hand signalling when turning and stopping.

·         Recognize and be mindful of the blind spots around cars, trucks and buses.

·         Cycle on the right side of the road.

·         Ride only in the designated direction on one-way streets.

·         Do not drive on the sidewalk.

·         Wear a helmet (required if under 18 years of age).

·         Have a bell or horn on your bike.

·         Be bright at night.  Use a headlight, taillight, reflectors and light-coloured or retro-reflective clothing so drivers can see you.

·         Share the road with other users.

·         Signal all lane changes, turns and stops.

 

All of these tips come as cycling season gets into full gear. Sunday Bikedays will begin this weekend on May 15th – You can find more information by clicking here.