Bicycle safety is about much more than simply wearing a helmet—it’s about information, preparation, anticipation and reaction. By understanding the rules of the road, both on a bicycle and in a car, a cyclist will be more adept at anticipating dangerous situations and reacting to them accordingly.
Hand Signals
Because most bicycles don’t have turn signals or brake lights, bicyclists sharing the road with motorized vehicles should be sure to utilize the appropriate hand signals relative to their intended actions. To signal a left turn to motorists around you, extend your arm straight out from your body. To signal a right hand turn, put your hand up in the air, bent at the elbow. To communicate your intention to slow down and stop, point your hand at the ground, also bent at the elbow.
Traffic Rules
Always ride your bike with the flow of traffic. Riding against traffic is a bad idea as motorists won’t be expecting a vehicle of any kind to be coming at them from the wrong way. Make use of bike lanes. They are there for a reason. If you find yourself riding on a street without a lane for cyclists, simply keep to the right hand side of the street. However, you may ride further out in the lane if you are going the speed of the rest of traffic. When turning, utilize the turn lanes. Just make sure to use the proper hand signals and don’t stop or turn in the blind spot of a motorist. Never ride on the sidewalk. Use a designated bike lane or the right side of the road. Always pay attention to traffic lights and road signs. Running a red light or a stop sign on a bicycle is still illegal.
Safety First
Before jumping on your bike, take a minute to check the individual components of your ride. Are the brakes working correctly, or are they too loose? Do the wheels rotate freely without any obstruction from the frame? Are the handlebars and the seat firmly attached? Are the tires pumped up? A quick scan of your bike may be the difference between a safe journey and an accident that could have been avoided.
Proper Equipment
Always wear bright clothing and a helmet while cycling in or around road traffic.
Only ride at night if you have the proper equipment. A headlight and flashing tail light are essential to safely riding when it’s dark outside. Wear bright colored clothing and reflectors in order to make yourself stand out to motorists. Avoid dark, unlit streets.
Pay Attention
Make eye contact with passing drivers if possible. Watch for obstacles that may impede your journey or cause an accident—this includes potholes, pedestrians, parked cars and raking motorists. The best way to avoid an accident is to constantly be aware of your surroundings.
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