CYCLING AND THE LAW
A bicycle is a vehicle under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA). This means that, as a bicyclist, you have the same rights and responsibilities to obey all traffic laws as other road users. Cyclists charged for disobeying traffic laws will be subject to a minimum set fine and a Victim Surcharge fine of $20.00 for most offences (please note set fines below are subject to change).
Please be aware that the Ontario Highway Traffic Act states:
In Ontario, it is the law that every cyclist under the age of 18 must wear an approved bicycle helmet.
and
Children are required to wear an approved bicycle helmet when riding in a child carrier or a bicycle trailer.
The following are not considered bicycles and are subject to different rules for use:
• Limited-speed motorcycles
• Motor-assisted bicycles (mopeds)
• Low-speed vehicles
• Electric and motorized scooters (go-peds)
• Pocket bikes
• Segway Human/Personal Transporters
For more information on the rules of use for these types of vehicles, please visit www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/bicycle-safety.shtml