We, the undersigned residents of Toronto, express our growing concern regarding the safety of our city's streets and sidewalks. The increasing number of bicycle delivery riders from services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes has brought attention to the urgent need for strict adherence to traffic laws and proper enforcement.

As a resident of Toronto who frequently drives, walks, and walks my dogs in the city, I have personally experienced the dangers posed by bicycle delivery riders who do not comply with traffic rules. Their presence on sidewalks and disregard for traffic laws have made it increasingly unsafe for pedestrians, drivers, and fellow cyclists. This issue is personal to me because it affects my daily life and the safety of my community.

In recent years, with the rise of home delivery services, we've seen an increase in these incidents. Yet, current legislation and enforcement do not seem sufficient to curb this concerning trend. A Statistics Canada report highlighted that an average of 74 Canadians die in cycling collisions each year, with 73% of those incidents involving a collision with a motor vehicle. Additionally, road safety rules may not have been respected in approximately 1 in 3 cycling fatalities​(Statistics Canada)​​ (Canadian Automobile Association)​.

This is not an attempt to villainize delivery riders, many of whom rely on their jobs to make ends meet. Instead, we ask the City of Toronto to ensure that all road users, including bicycle delivery riders, are held accountable to the same standard of safety.

While we appreciate the convenience and efficiency these delivery services provide, it is essential to ensure that all delivery riders prioritize safety and respect for our shared public spaces.  We call upon Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes to take immediate action to:

• Assign Rider Numbers for Reporting: Assign unique rider numbers to all delivery couriers, which can be displayed visibly on their person or bicycle.
• Equip Riders with Safety Gear: Ensure that all bicycle delivery riders are equipped with proper safety gear, including helmets, reflective clothing, and lights for their bicycles. This will not only increase their visibility but also promote safer riding practices.
• Educate and Train Delivery Riders: Provide comprehensive training programs to educate bicycle couriers on the importance of adhering to traffic laws, including the prohibition of riding on sidewalks and the necessity of using designated bike lanes and roads.
• Implement Strict Compliance Policies: Enforce strict policies and consequences for riders who do not comply with traffic laws. Regular monitoring and feedback systems should be established to ensure riders are consistently following the rules.

This allows the public to report unsafe riding practices directly to the delivery companies, ensuring accountability and prompt action. Additionally, we urge the City of Toronto and Toronto Police Services to:

• Increase Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Allocate more resources to enforce existing traffic laws for cyclists, particularly in high-traffic areas where non-compliance is most prevalent. Visible law enforcement presence and regular patrols can act as a deterrent to unlawful behaviour.
• Implement Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to raise public awareness about the rules for bicycle riders and the importance of maintaining pedestrian safety. Educating both riders and the general public can foster a culture of mutual respect and safety.
• Enhance Infrastructure for Safe Cycling: Invest in better cycling infrastructure, including more bike lanes and clearer signage, to provide safe and designated spaces for cyclists, reducing the temptation to use sidewalks.The safety of our city is a collective responsibility. By working together, we can ensure that Toronto remains a safe and enjoyable place for all—whether driving, walking, or cycling.

We urge the management of Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes, along with the City of Toronto and Toronto Police Services, to take these necessary steps to protect our community and uphold the law.

Please, help us in making life in Toronto safer for all who walk, drive, cycle, and live here. Sign the petition to urge Toronto city officials to enforce stricter traffic laws for bicycle delivery riders.

If you’ve experienced unsafe cycling practices or any other street safety concerns, please share your story with us on Instagram. Follow us at @pedalsafeto, a page dedicated to gathering stories and creating awareness for this cause.

You can message us directly or tag us in your posts and use the hashtag #PedalSafeTO.

Your stories and experiences will provide valuable insights and evidence to present to decision-makers, helping us invoke real change for a safer Toronto.

Your signature can make our streets safer. Step up for safety, Toronto.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.

Sincerely,
Mish