Behaviour Around Vulnerable
- 1/20Vulnerable road user refers to
Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycle riders lack the physical protection of enclosed vehicles. This makes them highly susceptible to injury in a collision, classifying them as vulnerable road users.
When you see a yellow flashing pedestrian-activated traffic light
A yellow flashing pedestrian-activated traffic light indicates caution. You must slow your vehicle to 30 kilometers per hour and be prepared to yield to any pedestrians crossing or intending to cross.
In an urban area, a pedestrian might indicate their intention to cross the street by
Pedestrians in urban areas may use a specific hand signal. Raising an arm at a right angle and pointing communicates their desire to cross the street, requiring drivers to be attentive.
If a pedestrian indicates their intention to cross the street at a crosswalk
When pedestrians signal their intent to cross, you are legally required to stop. Bring your vehicle safely to a halt before the crosswalk and permit them to cross completely.
When a pedestrian has already entered a marked or unmarked crosswalk
Once a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, regardless of whether it is marked, they have the right-of-way. You must always yield to them without exception.
When stopping for a pedestrian at a crosswalk
Stopping two to three car lengths back ensures clear visibility for drivers in other lanes. This provides them sufficient time to react and stop safely for the pedestrian.
A critical rule when approaching a crosswalk and planning to pass a vehicle
Passing another vehicle near a crosswalk is extremely dangerous. That vehicle might be slowing or stopping for a pedestrian who is out of your view, creating a high risk of collision.
Pedestrians crossing at intersection without a marked crosswalk
Not all crosswalks are painted with lines. However, the rules for pedestrian safety and yielding the right-of-way apply at all intersections, marked or unmarked.
When encountering visually impaired pedestrians
Be especially attentive and considerate towards visually impaired pedestrians. Watch carefully for those using a white cane or accompanied by a guide dog, ensuring their safety.
A cyclist is considered a pedestrian when
A cyclist who dismounts and walks beside their bicycle is legally considered a pedestrian. They are then subject to the same rules and rights as other pedestrians.
A bicycle being ridden on the road should be regarded as
A bicycle being ridden is legally considered a vehicle. Its operator must adhere to traffic laws just like any other driver on the road.
When passing a cyclist, you should adjust your driving by
When passing a cyclist, you should provide them with ample space. Change lanes to pass them, just as you would when passing another car, for their safety.
When preparing to turn right, it is important to
A shoulder check to your right blind spot before turning is crucial. Cyclists can be in this area, and checking ensures you do not turn into their path, preventing collisions.
Before opening your vehicle door when parked at the curb, your responsibility regarding cyclists is
It is your responsibility to ensure the path is clear before opening a vehicle door. Always check for approaching cyclists to prevent a collision.
You should avoid following too closely behind cyclists because
Unlike motor vehicles, bicycles typically do not have brake lights. This means you will not get a visual warning if a cyclist suddenly slows or stops, requiring extra following distance.
When children are on bicycles, you should be particularly alert for
Children on bikes often lack the experience or awareness to safely navigate traffic. This makes them highly unpredictable and necessitates extra caution from drivers.
A requirement for cyclists when riding after dark
To ensure visibility after dark, bicycles must be properly equipped. They require at least one headlamp, one red tail lamp, and a red reflector for legal and safe night riding.
The lane most motorcycle riders often use
Motorcycle riders often position themselves in the left part of their lane. This increases their visibility to drivers in other lanes and in rearview mirrors, improving their safety.
You should never share a lane with a motorcycle rider because
Motorcycles require the full width of a lane to maneuver safely. They need this space to avoid hazards and maintain balance, so sharing a lane with them poses a significant risk.
When a following a motorcycle
Motorcycles have excellent braking capabilities, meaning they can stop much faster than cars. An increased following distance provides you with crucial reaction time to prevent a rear-end collision.