When approaching cross streets, especially in residential areas where you are not on a major road, slow down and watch for cyclists that may suddenly appear from the side.

Cyclists, like a lot of car drivers, often treat stop signs as yield signs and do not come to a full stop. Be vigilant and do not assume a cyclist will stop even if you have the right of way. (This is the same advice we give to cyclists regarding motorists, by the way.)

Traffic Circles

What to do at those travel circles? It seems that cyclists and motorists are equally confused about the mini traffic circles that dot our neighbourhoods and bike routes. Basically traffic circles are like four-way stops where the vehicles do not have to stop. Whoever gets there first has the right of way; a vehicle already in the circle has the right of way; if two vehicles arrive at the same time, the one on the right has the right of way; if everyone arrives at the same time from all directions—lookout! Many drivers treat these traffic circles as minor obstacles on their thoroughfare. Don't do that. Slow down and look. Be prepared to stop if necessary. Don't assume the cyclist will yield even if you have the right of way.