The Motor Vehicle Act applies to all road users, including electric bicyclists.

Most provinces in Canada have laws requiring electric bicyclists to wear helmets and use a front white light and a rear red light when riding after dark.

It’s a good idea to have a bell or horn to notify pedestrians, cars and other cyclists of your approach. In fact, in some provinces it’s the law.

Bike reflectors and bright clothing help drivers see electric cyclists at night.

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way. Stop when people are at crosswalks and let them go first.

Legally, your electric bike is allowed to take up the whole lane if that is the safest thing to do.

It goes without saying that you should be vigilant when biking beside cars. Use bicycle lanes where possible and, when in traffic, stay a safe distance from vehicles.

Watch the road for holes or car doors opening ahead of you in your path.

You must stop at red lights and stop signs and always ride in the same direction as cars.

Ride in a straight line, that way drivers will better anticipate your trajectory.

Do not swerve in and out between cars.

Look over your shoulder before you change lanes.

When going straight through an intersection try to make eye contact with drivers.

Be wary of slick spots on the roads and don’t ride through puddles on roads you’re unfamiliar with.

Always signal before you want to change lanes by using hand signals or pointing.

Go slow when you turn, especially if the road is wet.

Do not enter the right-turn lane if you are going straight.

You are not allowed to ride your bicycle on the sidewalk or in crosswalks.

Manhole covers, railroad tracks, and any form of metal are going to be slippery in the rain as well as painted lines. Similarly, bridges can be slick in cold, wet weather.

Dress for the weather in layers of light clothing that can be added or removed as needed.