Built on the decommissioned railway line, The Confederation Trail in P.E.I. is a multi-use shared path with activity limited to walkers and hikers, wheelchairs, cyclists and runners.
Throughout the year, a walking group in PEI made up of community members who are blind or have low vision walk along the trail. One reoccurring (and avoidable) barrier that group members regularly encounter is cyclists who pass by without ringing their bells upon approach.
For people with sight loss, a silent and unexpected bicycle, e-bike, or e-scooter whizzing by on a shared pathway can be disorientating and dangerous, creating unsafe and stressful situations for pedestrians.
To help address the issue, CNIB received a grant from the Province of PEI’s Gender, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (GEDI) & Community Enhancement Program to develop a public awareness initiative in PEI to make riders aware of why it’s important to ring their bicycle bell along The Confederation Trail – to prevent collisions and enable safe and accessible journeys for all.
As part of the campaign, CNIB will also distribute bicycle bells for free! Beginning June 20, cyclists can pick up a free bicycle bell at CNIB Charlottetown, Cycling PEI, Bike Friendly Communities PEI and Visitor Information Centres, while supplies last.
Always ring your bicycle bell when passing pedestrians along The Confederation Trail!
Cyclists and e-bike/e-scooter riders on shared pathways and trails should always signal with a bell when approaching pedestrians. A bell ring alerts pedestrians of a rider’s presence and serves as a courteous heads-up, preventing sudden surprises, collisions, and injuries. It also acts as a friendly reminder for pedestrians to stay aware of their surroundings and share the path responsibly. 
Ringing your bicycle bell is a small gesture of respect that makes shared outdoor spaces more enjoyable for everyone. It’s not just a suggestion – it's the law! When riding a bicycle in PEI, your bike must have a bell.
Under the Highway Traffic Act, “No person shall operate a bicycle unless it is equipped with a bell or other device capable of giving a signal audible for a distance of at least 30 m, but a bicycle shall not be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a bicycle any siren or whistle.” R.S.P.E.I. 1974, Cap. H-6,s.106; 1978,c.10,s.8.
When riders ring their bell to alert pedestrians of their presence, it is safer for everyone using the trail. Join us in spreading awareness and promoting safer cycling etiquette within our community. Together, we can make The Confederation Trail safer for everyone!
For more information or to get involved with the campaign, please contact Rick Beck, Program Coordinator, PEI at rick.beck@cnib.ca or call 902-314-3869.