Government of New Brunswick

Share the road

share-the-road-category

Cyclists have a responsibility to make themselves visible to drivers, and drivers have a responsibility to make sure they look carefully for cyclists.

Whether you are on four wheels or two, if you’re on the road, you’re traffic. Road safety is everybody’s responsibility. Know the rules. Share the road.

The one-metre rule, known as Ellen’s Law


Under Ellen’s Law, the driver of a motor vehicle shall not pass a bicycle travelling in the same direction as the motor vehicle, unless there is sufficient space to do so safely, and the driver leaves at least one-metre (three feet) open space between the vehicle and the bicycle. Failure to provide this space will be an offence under the Motor Vehicle Act with a fine of $172.50 and three demerit points.

Cyclists

  • Wear bright colours & lights/reflective clothing at night
  • Make eye contact with drivers
  • Use hand signals
  • Remove distractions such as headphones
  • Ride on the right side of the road or designated bike lanes if available
  • Always wear a helmet

Motorists

  • Give cyclists at least 1-metre (3-feet) of space when passing
  • Slow down when necessary
  • Cross yellow line if safe to do so with no oncoming traffic
  • Look for cyclists
  • Avoid driving and parking in bike lanes
  • Look first before opening car doors