(St. John’s, NL) June 27, 2025 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is reminding cyclists and all road users of the importance of bicycle safety.

With summer upon us, and students out of school, there will be more cyclists on our roadways. With such an increase in bicycle traffic, motorists are advised to slow down in residential areas, avoid distractions, and be extra vigilant to help prevent injuries and keep cyclists safe. The RNC reminds drivers to maintain a minimum distance of one meter between their vehicle and the cyclist. Where posted speed limits are greater than 60 kilometers per hour, the required distance is one and a half meters.

The RNC encourages cyclists to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Always wear a property fitted helmet.
• Wear bright, reflective clothing and protective gear.
• Make sure your bike is in good riding condition; check your brakes and tires regularly.
• Ensure your bike has reflectors so approaching vehicles can see you.
• Use proper hand signals and obey traffic signs and lights.
• Ride on the right side of the road travelling in the same direction as traffic.
• Walk your bike through a crosswalk; make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
• Stay off sidewalks and yield to pedestrians at intersections.
• Avoid the use of headphones.

The RNC continues to urge the public to report unsafe driving behaviours directly to police by calling 911. To report anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com.

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Cst. James Cadigan, #775
Public Communications Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca
709-729-8658