Slow Down

Pedestrians and cyclists are the most vulnerable travellers on the road network. The rates of injuries they sustain are higher compared to other modes of travel. More than 90% of pedestrian collisions and more than 80% of cyclist collisions result in injuries or fatalities.

To keep pedestrians and cyclists safe, drivers need to take extra care, especially when travelling through school areas, residential areas and near playgrounds.

York Region continues to identify strategies and measures to change driver behaviour and stop speeding.

Speed limit revisions

Growing communities and changing travel behaviours require revisions to speed limits on Regional roads. York Regional Council approved revisions to speed limits at six locations  on Regional roads.

To notify travellers of the speed limit changes, speed limit signs are placed at the beginning of each changed speed zone, and for the first 60 to 90 days include a sign on the top with the word “NEW”.

Drivers and cyclists, slow down and share the road

There are more cyclists on the roads in August and September. Drivers, please slow down and share the road.

The cycling community continues to grow in York Region. Residents and visitors are riding for purpose and pleasure - enjoying the Region’s protected and on-road bike lanes, multi-use paths, trails and shared roadways.

Road safety measures continue to be a priority. In 2022, cyclists sustained injuries in 86% of all cyclist collisions. Drivers need to slow down and watch for cyclists, especially at intersections and when it’s necessary to enter or cross a bike lane. More than 80% of cyclist collisions occur at intersections where vehicles are turning.

Tips for motorists and cyclists on rural roads

For Motorists:

1. Share the Road - give cyclists at least one metre of space when passing
2. When approaching a group of cyclists, slow down and wait until its safe to pass - looking for oncoming traffic and good sightlines (do not pass on a hill/sharp curve)
3. Be prepared for cyclists to move laterally on the roads. They have to avoid potholes and obstacles while riding
4. Have patience. It may slow you down but unsafe driving around cyclists can cost them their lives

For Cyclists:

1. Ride tight to the right side of the road as much as possible, leaving space for passing motorists
2. When riding in groups, do not ride with more than two abreast. It provides space and shortens the amount of time it takes a motorist to pass your group
3. Always ride with front and rear lights in use, it increases visibility and your safety
4. Anticipate having to stop for motorists at all intersections and driveways, even if you have the 'right of way'. Mistakes are made and this could save your life
5. Ride with a I.D. bracelet that contains your name, medical info and emergency contact in case of an emergency

Cyclists can ride safely by:

• Equipping bicycles to meet Ontario law requirements
• Wearing a properly fitting helmet
• Using hand signals
• Checking over shoulders
• Scanning intersections
• Proceeding only when it's safe
• Maintaining a safe distance

View our Cycling Safety Factsheet

For more cycling information and safety tips visit york.ca/cycling

Visit the Ministry of Transportation Ontario website for resources on sharing the road with cyclists and other road users.

Drivers, slow down and watch for cyclists

There are more cyclists on the roads in August and September. Drivers, please slow down.  

The cycling community continues to grow in York Region. Residents and visitors are riding for purpose and pleasure - enjoying the Region’s protected and on-road bike lanes, multi-use paths, trails and shared roadways.

Road safety measures continue to be a priority. In 2020, cyclists sustained injuries in 84% of all cyclist collisions. Drivers need to slow down and watch for cyclists, especially at intersections and when it’s necessary to enter or cross a bike lane. More than 80% of cyclist collisions occur at intersections where vehicles are turning. This is due to high cyclist presence and a high occurrence of conflict points between vehicles and cyclists.

For cyclists that are riding for the first time or tuning up the reliable 10-speed, these important steps will make for a safer trip.

Cyclists can ride safely by:

• Equipping bicycles to meet Ontario law requirements
• Wearing a properly fitting helmet
• Using hand signals
• Checking over shoulders
• Scanning intersections
• Proceeding only when it’s safe
• Maintaining a safe distance

For cycling information and safety tips visit york.ca/cycling

Visit the Ministry of Transportation Ontario website for resources on sharing the road with cyclists and other road users.

Additional Road Safety Measures

• Working in partnership with towns and cities to pilot pavement markings that raise motorist awareness, including “Slow School Zone” markings
• Implementing no right turn on red restrictions and protected left turns at priority intersections
• Collaborating with York Regional Police, local municipalities, Public Health and Public School Boards to address the traveller safety experience
• Implementing Automated Speed Enforcement
• Revising speed limits for growing communities and safe travel
• Continuing the Red Light Camera program
• Motorists, pedestrians and cyclists - Be aware of one another, obey traffic rules and make eye contact

According to the Regional Municipality of York’s most recent statistics, more than one third of collisions are caused by acts of aggressive driving, including following too close, exceeding speed limit, speed too fast for condition, improper passing and improper lane change.

Related Resources

• Traffic Safety
• Cycling