Sidewalks are for Pedestrians

Pedestrians use sidewalks to travel safely along busy city streets. During the summer months, sidewalks are congested with pedestrians, cafes and vendors. When cyclists, in-line skaters and scooters are also involved, conflicts arise that could be prevented.

A City of St. Thomas traffic bylaw allows cyclists with bicycles that have a tire size of 51cm or 20 inches or less to ride on the sidewalk. The intent of this bylaw is to allow young children to cycle on the sidewalk while they learn to ride. The bylaw is based on wheel size because it is difficult for Police to enforce age based bylaws, as most children do not carry identification. This is a municipal bylaw and rules vary in communities across Ontario.

The City of St. Thomas bylaw states that “No person shall, either by himself or by permitting others without lawful authority, operate a motor vehicle or bicycle within, upon, across or along any sidewalk, path or boulevard except”

(a) a motorized wheelchair shall be permitted;

(b) at a driveway;

(c) a bicycle with a wheel or wheels less than 510 mm in diameter with a tire size of 510 mm X 45 mm. (B/L 92-95).”

The fine for not following this bylaw is $65 and aggressive cyclists can also be charged with careless driving.

There are many hazards involved when cycling on the sidewalks. If a cyclist hits a pedestrian, the injuries can be severe. Seniors are especially vulnerable and can fall merely by being startled. Anyone with a visual or hearing impairment is at increased risk.

Many cyclists ride on the sidewalk because they are afraid of cars. But choosing to ride on the sidewalk does not eliminate the risk of a car and bike collision. Cycling on the sidewalk is a contributing factor in 30 per cent of car and bike collisions. Collisions occur when cyclists ride off the sidewalk into the roadway or when motorists are exiting a laneway or driveway.

What to teach young cyclists about cycling on the sidewalk

• Always yield to pedestrians. Get off and walk your bike or put your foot down.
• Ride slowly.
• Always walk your bike through a crosswalk or crossover (Fines apply if not followed).
• Use a bell or horn to let pedestrians know that you are there.
• Make eye contact with drivers. Assume that drivers don't see you.
• Look for cars in driveways, lane ways and at intersections and be prepared to stop.
• Expect pedestrians to exit from stores.