Cyclists in New Brunswick should feel somewhat safer now that the so-called “Ellen’s Law” has received royal assent in the legislature.
The cycling community lobbied the provincial government for changes after international cyclist Ellen Watters was struck and killed while cycling in the Sussex area last December.
Velo NB member Sheila Cameron says it may be inconvenient for drivers but she believes it will make a difference.
“Always remember that often it will only take about 10 seconds for them (drivers) to slow down and wait until the oncoming traffic is clear so they can safely pass the cyclist. That 10 seconds can mean a lot to the cyclist,” she notes.
An amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act in New Brunswick now means drivers passing a cyclist must leave at least one metre of space between their vehicle and a bicycle.
The RCMP in Sussex confirm no charges will be laid in relation to the collision where Watters was hit while riding her bicycle.
