The weather is warm and the healthy Lower Mainland cyclists are coming out in record numbers. Over the last three years, the cities of Vancouver and Surrey have been building an infrastructure that enables a much better road system for bikes, pedestrians and cars.
The great folks over at HUB have organized another fantastic event in Vancouver: Bike to Work Week. The mandate of HUB is to make cycling better through education, action and events.
Sharing the roads for safety
Enter to win one of two HUB Maintenance & Mechanics Courses. Head over to the Warnett Hallen Facebook page and post a comment before Friday, May 29 at 6 pm on why you like to cycle. Each certificate has a value of up to $30.
“We’re pleased to see lots of positive growth trends for Bike to Work Week, with strong participation by first-time cyclists, women, and also kids through our Bike to School Week program,” says Colin Stein, Director of Marketing Communications & Campaigns for HUB Cycling. “We work with stakeholders across the region to improve road safety and conduct, in part because the Motor Vehicle Act and ICBC driver training currently lacks sufficient information on cycling and the rules of the road for all users. Everyone – motorists, cyclists and pedestrians – needs to work together and Bike to Work Week is a fun way to achieve that goal.”
Great road safety tips for new or experienced cyclists
- Plan your route for safety. Use one of the various cycle route planners to ride on routes designated for bikes. The routes less travelled by vehicle traffic are much safer. Refer to resources below.
- Know the rules of the road. If you are on two, three or four wheels, respect the rules.
- Eye Contact. Never assume you are visible, particularly at busy intersections. Make eye contact with drivers and other bikers as much as possible to ensure you are seen.
- Put your glow on. Stock up on reflectors, blinking lights, bells, and bright clothing. It can be very difficult to see bikers, especially in poor weather conditions. So whenever you hit the pavement, make sure you’re glowing your brightest.
- Tune-Up. Make sure your bike is in good riding condition. One of the best things you can do for yourself is take a bike maintenance course. Warnett Hallen LLP has two gift certificates to give away for Hub Education courses.
“At Warnett Hallen LLP, we like to support local organizations that keep our Vancouver roads safe and reduce the incidents of car crashes,” reports Manjot Hallen, one of Vancouver’s experienced car accident lawyers. Our evidence locker is full of smashed bike helmets. We know that when a bike comes head-to-head with a car, there are going to be significant injuries, often traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.”
Everyone needs to work together to keep our roads safe to accommodate cars, bikes and pedestrians. If you have been in a bike or car accident, review this bike/car accident checklist and call the bicycle accident attorneys at Warnett Hallen LLP first to help you with your ICBC claim. Our Kitsilano personal injury firm is located on West Broadway, close to bike routes and transit. If you are too injured to meet us at our office, we can meet you at a more convenient location or conduct your free consultation via Skype.
Great Resources:
- Cycle Info at Hub
- Route Planner Resources
- Open Street Map
- City of Vancouver
- Translink: Using TransLink with your bike
- Collision Check list from Hub
- BC Cycling Regulations and Restrictions
