A reader from Vancouver asked me where the rules came from for bicycle lanes and signs as they could not be found in the provincial driving manual, Learn to Drive Smart. Included in the e-mail was a link to the City of Vancouver's web site which showed a collection of signs and markings that are now in use on the city streets there. I didn't think that this was going to be a tough question!
Government Resources Concerning Bicycle Lanes
I went to the Manual of Standard Traffic Signs and Pavement Markings for British Columbia. Surely I would find everything there. I couldn't, so I e-mailed the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and asked. The lady that responded pointed me to the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) who she advised were responsible for setting the standards.
TAC's documentation is titled Bikeway Traffic Control Guidelines for Canada and must be purchased. That document is significantly expensive so I searched the title on the internet instead. I was able to find some information buy have yet to find a single well written guide to help drivers understand how to interact with bicycle lanes and facilities.
Since that inquiry, the MOTT has published the Active Transportation Design Guide to guide the construction of infrastructure dedicated to active transportation which includes bicycle lanes. At least this will show what a driver might encounter in B.C. and the intent behind the markings.
Resources a Still Limited
So, if you are curious about what those "new" signs and pavement markings require you to do as either a driver or a cyclist, my best advice is that you will still have to research on your own. If you do find a good resource, let me know so that I can link it here.
MVA Needs an Update
Our provincial Motor Vehicle Act is still stuck in the past when it comes to cycling facilities. Updates are needed and once done, Learn to Drive Smart can be updated accordingly.
How to Stay Safe as a Driver
If you are driving on roads that include bicycle lanes and other active transportation facilities, keep your lane discipline, watch out for each other and exercise courtesy when you meet.
Learn More
- Bikeway Traffic Control Guidelines - Bringing Canada Up to Date
- Bike Related Road Markings and Signs
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