RCMP crackdown in high gear, handing out 190 bike-related violations

It wasn’t a goal for the Prince George RCMP, Cpl. Craig Douglass told MyPGNow.

“It’s not about getting as many violations as possible. We would quite frankly like to not get any violations,” said Douglass. “Unfortunately, 190 violations is quite a significant amount.”

This stems from the April campaign conducted by the Prince George RCMP’s Municipal Traffic Services Section, focusing on bicycle and motorcycle safety.

The No. 1 infraction was cyclists not wearing helmets, which had 96 violations during the month of April.

Douglass states that cyclists are required by provincial statute to obey the Motor Vehicle Act and its regulations.

Especially for those who may ride their bike in the downtown area where frequent pedestrians and the speed of bikes can cause collisions. Following the rules of the road is required, states Douglass.

Here’s a list of the violations during the safety campaign:

• 96 bicycle helmet violations
• 50 violations for riding bicycles on sidewalks
• 29 other violations for bicycle offences
• six violations to vehicle drivers that were driving without consideration or without due care for other road users
• four violations to pedestrians for unsafe crossing
• two violations for failing to signal
• one bicycle helmet violation to a parent of an underaged youth
• one motorcycle helmet violation
• one violation for careless cycling

“As a motorist, it’s your responsibility to follow the rules of the road and be courteous to all types of road users,” said Sgt. Matthew LaBelle, who’s in charge of the Municipal Traffic Services Unit. “As a cyclist or pedestrian, it’s even more important to follow the rules of the road, as you lack the protection required if a collision happens.”

The RCMP’s focus for the month of May will be with regards to aggressive driving and speed.