We have received lots of feedback recently about bicycles on sidewalks and would like to take this opportunity to confirm that bicycle riding on sidewalks is not only very dangerous, it is against the law in Owen Sound.

Riding bikes on sidewalks can be very dangerous. First of all, there is a greater chance of serious collisions with pedestrians as they move in and out of buildings, along sidewalks, and as they exit and enter curb-side parked vehicle. Secondly, the possibility serious collisions with motor vehicles also increases as sidewalk cyclists cross driveways and through intersections.  In fact research shows that sidewalk cycling is twice as dangerous as cycling on the street, and cycling against the traffic on the sidewalk is over four times as dangerous as cycling on the street.

Just don’t do it!

Sidewalks are for pedestrians.  Please ride responsibly.

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For more information contact the City of Owen Sound and reference by-law # 1989-123 section 2.3, which states “No person shall run, draw or push any carriage, cart, handcart, truck, wagon, hand wagon, sleigh or other vehicle, or ride a bicycle along a sidewalk.  This clause shall not apply to a child’s carriage, hand wagon, hand sleigh or a disabled persons wheel chair or scooter.”

Infractions can be reported to the City of Owen Sound By-Law Division at 519-376-1440.