Dr. Alexander Reynolds
Cities around the world are grappling with the issue of bikes and electric bikes riding on sidewalks, posing a significant risk to pedestrians. In Toronto, pedestrians like Carroll are increasingly finding themselves in dangerous situations where they have to constantly leap out of the way to avoid collisions with cyclists. Sean Shapiro, a constable with the Toronto Police Service, acknowledges that riding bikes on sidewalks poses a major safety problem, especially for pedestrians and others who need that space.
While it may vary depending on local bylaws, Ontario does not ban sidewalk riding for bicycles, but Toronto specifically prohibits sidewalk riding for anyone over the age of 14, imposing a fine of $60 for violators. The regulation was amended to be based on age to prevent individuals from exploiting loopholes, such as using folding bikes with small tires. However, parents riding with children are required to ride on the road, while their kids can still ride on the sidewalk.
The situation becomes even more complicated when it comes to e-bikes. Shapiro emphasizes that e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks, and individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding them. Although exact statistics on tickets for sidewalk riding or collisions between cyclists and pedestrians are not readily available, it is clear that the problem is not limited to Toronto. Many other cities, such as Montreal, have experienced similar issues.
It is crucial for cyclists to understand that using a bell to signal pedestrians to move aside is not the intended purpose. Shapiro stresses that cyclists should walk their bikes on the sidewalk and respect the designated space for pedestrians. While it is understandable that cyclists want to feel safe, they should not compromise the safety of others. All road users, whether they are drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians, have a role to play in ensuring everyone’s safety on the streets.
Delivery apps like Uber and DoorDash also have a responsibility to ensure that their riders adhere to the rules of the road and refrain from riding bikes on sidewalks. Education and awareness play a vital role in addressing this issue and promoting a harmonious coexistence between different road users.
In conclusion, riding bikes on sidewalks is a major safety concern that threatens the well-being of pedestrians. It is crucial for cyclists to understand and respect the rules of the road, especially when it comes to sharing the sidewalk with pedestrians. By promoting education and enforcing regulations, cities can work towards creating safer streets for everyone.
The issue of bikes and electric bikes riding on sidewalks is not limited to Toronto; many cities around the world are grappling with this problem. It poses a significant risk to pedestrians, who often find themselves in dangerous situations where they have to constantly dodge cyclists. This has prompted cities like Toronto to implement regulations to address the issue.
In Ontario, sidewalk riding is not explicitly banned for bicycles, but Toronto specifically prohibits it for individuals over the age of 14. Violators can be fined $60. This regulation was amended to prevent people from exploiting loopholes, such as using folding bikes with small tires. However, parents riding with children are still required to ride on the road, while their kids can ride on the sidewalk.
The situation becomes more complex when it comes to e-bikes. According to constable Sean Shapiro of the Toronto Police Service, e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks, and individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding them. The exact statistics regarding tickets for sidewalk riding or collisions between cyclists and pedestrians are not readily available, but it is evident that many cities, including Montreal, are also dealing with similar issues.
Cyclists should understand that using a bell to signal pedestrians to move is not the intended purpose. Shapiro emphasizes that cyclists should walk their bikes on the sidewalk and respect the designated space for pedestrians. Although cyclists may want to prioritize their safety, they should not compromise the safety of others. All road users, whether drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians, have a responsibility to ensure everyone’s safety on the streets.
Delivery apps like Uber and DoorDash also have a role to play in addressing this issue. They should ensure that their riders adhere to the rules of the road and refrain from riding bikes on sidewalks. Education and awareness are essential in promoting a harmonious coexistence between different road users and reducing the risks associated with sidewalk riding.
In summary, riding bikes on sidewalks is a major safety concern in many cities worldwide. It is crucial for cyclists to understand and respect the rules of the road, particularly when sharing the sidewalk with pedestrians. By promoting education and enforcing regulations, cities can work towards creating safer streets for everyone.
