Cyclists continue to use sidewalks despite danger to pedestrians, risk of fines

It’s supposed to be a space for two feet, but as of late, Toronto police say they’re answering calls for cyclists on the sidewalks with many pedestrians saying it’s becoming a safety hazard.

“It’s a very dangerous thing,” said Debra Kuchme, a Leaside resident who says one of her friends was injured after being hit by a sidewalk cyclist.

Toronto City Bylaw

According to city bylaws, no one over the age of 14 is allowed to ride on the sidewalk — an offence that could come with a $60 fine.

Under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, bicycles are also considered vehicles. If charged with “careless driving,” a cyclist could face a fine of between $400 and $2,000. That could also include six months in jail.

Jared Kolb, the executive director of Cycle Toronto, says he doesn’t think riding on the sidewalk is the right thing to do, but says the city needs to step up to help solve the problem.

“We have a very small cycling network so we’ve got to remember that often times people choose to ride on the side walk because (they believe) it is the safer option,” he said.

“That being said one of the best things we can do to combat sidewalk riding is to install bike lanes on our streets and dedicate space on our roads for cyclists.”

The city agrees but Councillor Jon Burnside says the key to solving this issue is for pedestrians and cyclists to respect each other’s space.

“There is room for conversation for more bike lanes..but we’re trying to retrofit a city,” he said.

“There are going to be situations where cyclists may not feel safe, they have an alternative to get off the bike or go to a side street. Pedestrian safety is job number one.”