The City of Vancouver is committed to making cycling easier and safer, and is making many improvements for cyclists.

As more cyclists take to the streets, everyone – cyclists and motorists – have to learn to share our roads. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.

The Motor Vehicle Act and City bylaws apply to bicycles too, so know and obey the rules of the road. 

Cyclist safety

• Always come to a full stop at stop signs. Not stopping is illegal under BC's Motor Vehicle Act, and you can be fined $167. Watch the above video to learn more
• Never assume that another cyclist, driver, or pedestrian sees you. Make eye contact with other road users
• Take care when cycling past parked cars to leave enough space for drivers and passengers to open car doors 
• Cycle in traffic safely and predictably. Signal before turning, and learn the skills needed to control your bike  
• Yield to pedestrians crossing the street, and to buses when they are leaving a stop
• Do not ride on sidewalks or crosswalks unless signs posted allow you to. Walk your bicycle on a sidewalk or a crosswalk 
• Maintain your bike in good working order. Equip it with a warning bell and use front and rear lights on your bicycle after dark, as required by law
• Helmets must be worn according to Provincial Law, and safety vests or reflective clothing are recommended. Do not wear headphones that cover both ears
• Take extra care when it’s wet because it will take longer for your brakes to grip and stop your bike
• Check out Bike Sense, a comprehensive BC guide to operating a bike in traffic.