Bicycle Safety

The City of Calgary provides bicycle safety and education information through their pathways and trails page. Below is an overview of the most important laws, guidelines and resources to help cyclists ride safely.

Under Sections 111(1) to 112(7) of the Alberta Vehicle Equipment regulation, anyone under 18 years old must wear a properly fitted safety helmet when riding or being a passenger on a bicycle.

A safety helmet must:

• be certified
• have a hard, smooth outer shell and is capable of absorbing energy on impact
• be securely attached to a strap that is to be fastened around the chin of the person wearing the safety helmet
• be free of damage or modification that could reduce effectiveness.

Failure to meet these standards may result in a fine for riders under 18. While the law only mandates helmets for those under 18, helmet use is strongly recommended for all ages to prevent brain and skull injuries.

Cyclists are bound by the same rules of the road as motor vehicle operators. This includes obeying traffic signs, signals and right-of-way.

Children under 14 years old can ride bikes on the sidewalk. All others must ride on the road or in designated cycling spaces.

Operating a bicycle while drinking is not a Criminal Code offence, as a bicycle is not a motor vehicle. However, alcohol can impair balance and reaction time, making cycling unsafe.

Other consequences may still apply under the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, such as public intoxication or consuming alcohol in a public place.

Because the Traffic Safety Act classifies a bicycle as a vehicle, cyclists can be fined for distracted driving, including the use of handheld electronic devices.

Designated bike lanes are marked by white diamond and bicycle symbols on pavement and signage. They are in effect at all hours, unless otherwise indicated.  

When safe to do so, vehicles may enter a bike lane prior to an intersection to make a right turn.

A cycle track is a bike lane protected by a physical barrier from moving cars, parked cars and sidewalks. It provides a predictable space and minimizes potential conflicts between people who walk, bicycle, and drive.

For more information on The City of Calgary’s cycle track pilot program, visit Downtown Cycle Tracks.

Parking restrictions in designated bike lanes are indicated through signage. If you see vehicles driving or parking in bike lanes:

• The Calgary Police Service often uses educational approach to address infractions 
• You can contact Calgary Parking to determine if restrictions are enforced in that zone. 

Police officers are exempt from the sidewalk cycling restriction and may ride on sidewalks while performing their duties.