Why do you record your ride?
I ride in Toronto and Mississauga, and I’ve witnessed all sorts of aggression from drivers towards cyclists. This isn’t going to change anytime soon. Even if I report incidents to Toronto Police or Peel Police with video evidence, they don’t seem to take action to correct the driver’s dangerous behaviour. I record my rides to document the worst behaviours and have proof in case I get hit by motorists (which has happened twice so far: once by an aggressive driver and once by a clueless driver).
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I feel most vulnerable when I’m riding alone on the side of the road in Toronto and Mississauga. Drivers often take their frustration out on cyclists, and when I’m not in a group, it happens more frequently—likely because there are no witnesses when I’m riding alone.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
Yes, I reported the incident. The Peel Police website states that for a first report against a vehicle, they will send a letter to the registered owner of the vehicle. However, I couldn’t attach pictures or videos to the report, and no one contacted me to obtain the evidence. So I doubt they did anything. It’s frustrating because, while passing 30 cyclists on a narrow road, the vehicle nearly caused two head-on collisions with oncoming traffic!
What do you think about UpRide?
It’s great for posting videos and raising awareness. When I post a video, I’d like it to go live immediately so I can share the link while the topic is still fresh.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
Choose your routes carefully. If you live in the Toronto area, try to get outside the city for safer road cycling and ride with a buddy. Always document your rides—you never know what could happen.
Want to share your story?
We’d love to hear from you. If you would like to share your stories and experience as a cyclist please reach out to the UpRide team.
