2 Friday, June 22, 2018 brooklintowncrier.com The Region of Durham is reminding drivers they are required to keep a distance of one-metre between their vehicles and a bicycle when driving on the roadway. Additionally, a driver of a motor vehicle shall not pass a bicycle travelling in the same direction unless there is sufficient space to do so safely and the driver keeps at least one-metre of open space between themselves and the cyclist. "We are encouraging cyclists and motorists to respect the three Rs of safe cycling; same roads, same rights and same rules," says Ramesh Jagannathan, Director of Transportation and Field Services for Durham Region. "By understanding and practicing these three Rs, cyclists can help ensure their own safety and, at the same time, help motorists understand their intentions. Motorists should always follow the rules of the road and ensure that cyclists are given the courtesy and space required to ride safely." Motorists and cyclists have to work together to keep each other safe. They have the same rights and responsibilities and must follow the same rules of the road. Keeping a long distance relationship helps ensure everyone will get to their destination safely. Durham Region's Works Department has reviewed collision data from the past several years and identified intersections as locations where there is higher potential for cyclist collisions. Nearly 20 per cent of drivers charged in cycling collisions failed to yield the right of way at an intersection. The Making Ontario's Roads Safer Act identifies suggestions for cyclists to improve visibility and safety, such as turning on headlamps and taillights at least 30 minutes before sunset. The Region of Durham also offers safety tips on its website at durham.ca/DurhamCycling. Leave Clearance Alongside Cyclists