It is essential to observe the provisions of the Highway Safety Code, which also concerns cyclists, to ensure bicycle safety. However, some behaviours and habits can also enhance bicycle safety.

• Wearing a bike helmet
  It is a well-established fact that wearing a bike helmet is an effective way to preventing head injuries. The Highway Safety Code does not oblige cyclists to wear a helmet, although every cyclist should wear one. The helmet should be carefully adjusted to maximize its effectiveness.
• Being visible at all times
  Cyclists, like pedestrians, can be difficult to see in certain circumstances. Wearing visible clothes and accessories, in addition to the reflectors, headlight and tail-light required by the Highway Safety Code helps to be visible at all times.
• Making visual contact
  The Highway Safety Code does not require road users to make visual contact with each other, but it helps staying safe at intersections or during specific movements, as it ensures that other users have seen you.
• Avoiding blind spots
  All road vehicles have blind spots, which are areas that drivers cannot see in their mirrors or windows. Blind spots on heavy vehicles are especially large. To stay visible at all times, avoid riding or stopping in blind spots.
• Choosing a safe route
  Cyclists can ride on most public roads, except on freeways. However, some roads are safer for bicycles than others. Knowing your route well, your needs and your capabilities can prevent you from ending up in a place where you are put in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation.
• Making sure your bicycle is in good condition and adapted to your needs
  Many types of bicycles exist, and each of them is suited to a specific use or terrain. Various accessories make carrying children and objects possible or easier. Using the appropriate device for a specific use can prevent dangerous situations.
• Preventing theft and the obstruction public space
  A bicycle lock can be used to lock a bicycle on a rack and ensure it will not be stolen. When a bicycle is locked to another object than a bicycle rack, it is necessary to ensure that it does not hinder the movement of people—especially people with reduced mobility—, block access to properties and businesses, or interfere with public road maintenance.

Bicycle-friendly roads — mapping tool

The Québec 511 website offers a tool indicating the bicycle-friendliness of roads. This mapping tool helps cyclists choosing their route. With a single click in the legend, users can view the bicycle-friendliness of the roads under the Ministère’s responsibility. By clicking on these roads, it is possible to view their characteristics:

• presence of paved shoulders and their width
• road vehicle traffic volume, especially heavy vehicle traffic
• posted speed limit
• name of municipality
• name or number of road
• closeness of Route verte, if applicable