Police campaign focuses on road safety along Sterling
'Project Trauma Prevention,' a month-long safety initiative from Hamilton Police Services, will be enforcing cycling laws and encouraging safe riding along Sterling Street for the next several weeks.
With warmer weather upon us, it’s time to dust off the ol’ Schwinn and leave those snow boots behind. But not before reviewing the rules of the road.
In an effort to keep students, staff and pedestrians safe, Hamilton Police Services has launched “Project Trauma Prevention” – a month-long program designed to enforce cycling infractions along Sterling Street, while also educating the public about safe cycling.
“The objective at hand is to educate, deter and enforce violations to make the streets in question safer for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians,” said Sgt. Scott Moreton, Hamilton Police Services, in a recent letter to the community.
Officers advise the community that riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is illegal in the city of Hamilton. Riders are most visible to drivers when traveling in designated bike lanes, or (if a bike lane isn’t present) the curb lane of a street.
Riders should also use proper hand signals when turning; travel in single file when in a group; yield to pedestrians; and come to a full stop at all stop signs. All cyclists are encouraged to wear a helmet, and those under the age of 18 are required to by law. Motorists should reduce speed and leave sufficient space when passing a cyclist, and signal all turns and lane changes.
“Whenever we coordinate group rides (including the popular ‘Bike to Work Day’ each spring), we take every opportunity to go over the rules of the road,” says Kate Whalen, senior manager, University Sustainability. “Students often have questions concerning where to buy and affix lights and reflective tape, or how to fix a tire, and we always encourage riders to wear helmets.”
For new riders or those interested in a refresher, Whalen’s team is also coordinating a CAN-BIKE training course from March 22-24, covering the basics of defensive riding on city streets. The 13-hour weekend course is being offered in collaboration with students enrolled in Sustain 2A03.
“Doing something as a team and having that experiential component always helps people learn better,” adds Whalen. Cost for the weekend session is $20 for anyone with a MAC ID.
Cycling safety tips can be found on the Security Services website.
