Relay Underway to Celebrate New Bike Legislation

To raise awareness of new rules that promote sharing the road between cyclists and motor vehicles, Bicycle Nova Scotia today, May 16, started a provincewide bicycle relay that will end at the Nova Scotia Legislature on June 1.

"June first is the day this legislation comes into effect and the relay will help bring attention to it," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks. "I wish all riders fair weather and safe cycling."

The new legislation includes requirements for cyclists and motor vehicle operators. Among the requirements are that motor vehicle drivers leave at least one metre (three feet) of space when passing a cyclist, and it allows motorists to cross a yellow line when it is necessary to pass, as long as it is safe to do so. Cyclists will be required to ride single file, except when passing another cyclist, and to ride on the right side of the road.

"We've worked closely with Bicycle Nova Scotia and other active transportation groups to develop legislation to make our roads safer for all users," said Mr. Estabrooks. "We want all road users to understand that road safety is a shared responsibility."

Relay starting points are in Amherst, Sydney, and two routes out of Yarmouth, one via the Annapolis Valley and the other along the South Shore. More information on the relay is available on the Bicycle Nova Scotia website at www.bicycle.ns.ca/educ_advcy.html .