Who has the right of way when turning?

Pedestrians and cyclists do.

Section 349 of the Highway Safety Code states it quite clearly: any motorist or cyclist “who is turning at an intersection must yield the right of way to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the roadway.” Therefore, a cyclist who is continuing straight ahead has priority over any motorist or cyclist who wants to turn right.

If a cyclist wants to turn left, the Code states that he or she must first yield to any vehicle coming from the opposite direction and then ensure that the manoeuvre can be performed safely. In CAA-Quebec’s opinion, cyclists in this situation should keep as far to the right of the roadway as possible and, when the way is clear, cross to the other side of the intersection and then complete their left turn. This is a safe method, especially at a busy intersection.

Similarly, before turning right at a red light, both motorists and cyclists must always make sure they are allowed to do so, and that it is safe to proceed. Right turns on red are forbidden everywhere on the Island of Montreal, while in municipalities that do permit them, they are not allowed at every intersection.

Watch for blind spots and doors opening. Motorists, don’t forget to check your blind spots before making a turn or lane change, and make sure the lane you want to enter is completely safe: cyclists travel faster than pedestrians and ride very close to vehicles, so they aren’t as visible.

Cyclists, when riding in the city, be particularly alert for car doors suddenly opening and other possibly unforeseeable events. When riding next to a line of parked cars, keep a reasonable distance away — at least a metre.

Learn sign language. A cyclist who is about to turn right must signal his or her intention to do so by extending the right arm completely outward, or extending the left upper arm out with the forearm pointed up.

Extending the left arm fully outward signals the cyclist’s intention to turn left, while extending the left upper arm out and keeping the forearm pointed downward means he or she is about to stop. Drivers should therefore maintain visual contact with any cyclists in front of them to be aware of their intentions.