Drive and cycle with care

PETERBOROUGH, ON, June 6, 2012 /CNW/ - Two wheels or four, no matter the type of vehicle you operate, safety is a responsibility that we all share — and it starts with good decisions.

"Safe and responsible travel on our roads is up to everyone using them", says Jeff LeMoine, spokesperson for CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO). "Cyclists and motorists alike can make simple, good decisions every time they are on the roads to keep one another safe."

CAA SCO and Peterborough Lakefield Police are committed to helping keep our roads safe for everyone using them and urge motorists and cyclists to continue working together to ensure this happens each day.

"Cyclists should share the roadway with vehicles and must follow the rules of the road such as traveling in the same direction as vehicular traffic and obeying traffic signals. In Peterborough, riding on the sidewalk is illegal but abiding by these simple guidelines will ensure your cycling safety," says Chief Murray Rodd, Peterborough, Lakefield Community Police Service.

Make these good decisions the next time you drive:

• Slow down when passing a cyclist and allow one metre clearance
• Always shoulder check when changing lanes
• Watch for bikes before exiting your vehicle
• Always yield to cyclists when you are making a turn

Make these good decisions the next time you cycle:

• Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals
• Avoid hazards - stay about 1 metre from the curb or parked cars
• Wear a helmet
• Make sure your bike is in proper working order — check horn, brakes, and reflectors

For more information on cycling safely and the great cycling routes throughout South Central Ontario, visit www.caasco.com/cyclesafe

CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel, automotive care and roadside services. There are more than 1.8 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and 5 million members in Canada. We're more than Roadside Assistance. We're Life-side Assistance. Visit www.caasco.com.

Follow CAA on Twitter @caasco for regular updates on wait times and other news and information.

Media contact: Jeff LeMoine, Internal/External PR Specialist, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Specialist, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone]