Long-term disability denied? MG Law understands that this is one of the most stressful times in your life. That’s why our team, with over 10 years of experience, is here to help and guide you through the legal process when you’re denied long-term disability insurance. This blog will explain how you can pursue the coverage […]
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Ready 2 Ride -
MG Law’s Bicycle Safety Division
For Drivers
Stay vigilant when driving and actively scan the road for cyclists. Make eye contact with cyclists to let them know they’ve seen you.
Signal early and often to ensure cyclists know your next intention when driving.
Use the “Dutch Reach” when opening driver doors. By using your right hand instead of your left, it forces you to swivel your body and observe the road around you. This way, you’ll spot cyclists and avoid nasty dooring accidents.
Avoid tailgating and always maintain a safe distance of around three seconds between your car and a bicycle. Whether they’re passing on the right or in front of you.
Avoid “distracted driving”. As of January 1, 2019, Ontario introduced harsher punishments for those using cell phones and unrelated display screens while driving.
Stay calm. Riding the horn could startle a cyclist causing them to fall so only use it when absolutely necessary. Restlessness only increases the potential for accidents taking place.
Avoid right hooks. Check your blind spot before every right turn to ensure you don’t cut off any cyclists. Similarly, watch for oncoming cyclists before turning left.
For Cyclists
Wear a helmet! According to Consumer Reports, 78% of adults and 88% of children who suffered head and neck injuries when cycling were not wearing a helmet.
Always check your blind spot and signal your intent before making any turn.
Make sure you’re visible. Avoid dark clothes. Instead, wear bright colours or reflective materials both day and night.
Stay vigilant when passing parked cars and moving cars that may be about to change direction.
Perform a complete stop at red lights, stop signs and pedestrian crosswalks.
Avoid using headphones when riding to stay alert to traffic noise around you.
Get your bike serviced regularly to avoid any risk of mechanical failures when riding.
Avoid swerving in and out of lanes, and respect the cars and pedestrians around you.
Related Blogs
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Spinal Cord Injury Compensation Claims and Payouts Damage to your spinal cord can occur in a number of ways, but it’s usually caused by extreme trauma. In these cases it’s important to understand how spinal cord injury compensation is determined. You can also experience injury to your spinal cord from certain cancers, blood loss or […]
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Published August 26, 2020
Currently under Stage 3 of Ontario’s COVID-19 reopening plan, many Canadians are back to work after several months working remotely. After so much time indoors, it’s easy for drivers to feel rusty and lazy behind the wheel. Nevertheless, staying aware of the Ontario distracted driving law is important any time, even more so after lockdown. […]
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Remember, MG Law is on cyclists’ side. If you’re the unfortunate victim of a bicycle accident and need to take the next step, our Ottawa lawyers can help.
