Province Introduces Bicycle Safety Legislation

The province is making roads safer for cyclists.

Amendments to be introduced to the Motor Vehicle Act today, Nov. 15, will require drivers to leave one-metre of open space between the vehicle and cyclists when passing.

Nova Scotia is the first province to enact the one-metre rule, which is law in 15 U.S. states.

"We know that Nova Scotians expect and deserve to feel safe on our roads," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks. "By clarifying the roles and responsibilities of cyclists and motorists, the rules will be clearer and safety will be enhanced."

The province has consulted with members of the cycling community on the proposed amendments that include:

• a definition for cyclist and bicycle lane
• prohibiting vehicle parking in a bicycle lane
• making it an offence to fail to yield to a cyclist in a bicycle lane
• redefining cycling on the extreme right
• allowing drivers of vehicles to cross a centre line to pass a bicycle, if the driver can do so safely
• requiring cyclists to ride single file and in the same direction of the traffic