Cycling

For years I've thought about sending this question to you. This is regarding the issue of "walk on left, ride on right". I have always understood that on any road/path with no sidewalk that is shared by pedestrians and vehicles (including bicycles), the pedestrians should keep to the left facing traffic, and the vehicles keep to the right.

The Traffic Injury Research Foundation reports that Canadians are not overly concerned about the behaviours and safety of pedestrians and bicyclists according to a public opinion poll. However, crash data and self-reported behaviour illustrate that concern is still warranted. “Pedestrians and bicyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users,” says Ward Vanlaar, TIRF researcher and lead author of the Road Safety Monitor series.

"This Case Study Compendium contains a collection of brief, original case studies developed by the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center and the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals.

This is a video from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the U.S., but almost all of it applies equally well to B.C. cyclists. Topics covered include choosing and making sure your bike is in good condition, safety equipment, rules of the road and safety tips to avoid collisions. Running time is 7 minutes 25 seconds.

Idris Gencoglu parked his large truck on the north side of Alberni Street in Vancouver at about 3:00 in the afternoon. He checked his rear view mirrors and opened the driver's door to exit, stepping into the street. In order to retrieve some items from the truck he had to step up onto the running board and spent some time with the driver's door open into traffic while he gathered them.