In 2016, let's hope for a year in which cyclists' place on the road is better recognized, and the road is shared with civic-mindedness. Courteous behavior that respects the rules of the road increases our safety and credibility with other road users. Respecting others also puts us in a better position in the event of conflict.
Let's hope that the new Minister of Transport, Sustainable Mobility and Transportation Electrification, Jacques Daoust, quickly tables the bill to amend the Highway Safety Code. We look forward to seeing how it will be adapted to the reality of cyclists in the 21st century.e We'd like to know what the new code will look like in the 21st century, and what place it will give to our most important demands: implementation of the precautionary principle, authorization to cycle in a corridor at least 1.5 m to the right of the carriageway, clear definition of the distance a vehicle must keep when overtaking a cyclist, implementation of the Idaho stop sign, sharing of sidewalks with pedestrians in certain situations, and tougher penalties for motorists who open their doors without looking. After almost two years of reflection and work, we believe it's high time this new code was known and discussed.
In the meantime, life goes on and our springtime enthusiasm should not blind us to the fact that April brings its share of streets that have endured a harsh winter. As cyclists, we're particularly vulnerable to potholes, so take it easy and avoid the water-filled holes that can hide a crater! And we can't stress this enough: pay particular attention to buses and trucks. More than 31 % of cycling fatalities in Quebec are due to a collision with a truck - this figure alone should make us even more vigilant when we come across a heavy vehicle on our route. Stay in front or behind, but avoid staying to the side when it stops at an intersection or makes a right-hand turn. In the vehicle's blind spot, since the driver has no way of seeing us, we are particularly vulnerable. So be careful.
Enjoy the season!
The Route verte is back to life!
Vélo Québec is pleased to learn that maintaining and improving the Route verte is one of the concerns of the Quebec government, which will devote resources to it in its 2016-2017 budget and for years to come. The appeals of municipalities, citizens, civil society players and tourism industry representatives have been heard and, thanks to their mobilization, our cycling jewel will receive the care it deserves to continue delighting Quebecers and visitors alike. It's a decision that is sure to delight the many Quebecers who have expressed their attachment to our national network.
Thank you all for your support and commitment to saving the Route verte!
Suzanne Lareau
President and General Manager
