Keeping yourself safe while riding your bike may seem like common sense, but there's a lot more to it. Riding safely takes a keen understanding of the risks of riding a bike, as well as a knowledge of the steps you can take to reduce those risks while you're out on the road. A safety checklist can help make sure you've got all your bases covered before pedaling off on your next ride.
Helmet
The first, and most important, item on your checklist should be to remember your helmet. Traumatic brain and head injuries are the most common causes of death and debilitating injury for bike riders, according to the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration. Wearing a helmet can help reduce your risk for those types of injuries by at least 85%. Make sure your checklist includes finding out if your helmet is approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Bike Readiness
Review your bike thoroughly before setting off. Check the tire pressure to make sure it's sufficient for the size of tires you have; insufficient tire pressure can make it harder to come to a sudden stop. Check your brakes to make sure they're working properly, as well as all your gears if you're riding a multi-gear bike. Check for any loose parts, screws, and bolts, so nothing comes apart while you're riding.
Make Yourself Visible
Part of being a responsible bicyclist is helping others see you when you're riding, particularly motorists. It can be hard to see a person on a bicycle when you're focused on traffic, so make sure your checklist includes brightly colored clothes. Check the reflectors on your bike to make sure they're positioned properly, and not broken.
Know the Rules of the Road
Review the safety rules of riding your bike on the road. Ride with traffic, and obey all safety signs, traffic lights, and lane markings. Act like a motorist, and drive defensively. Review the proper bike signals, such as those for stopping, turning right and left, and slowing down. Remember to ride clear of parked cars, as their doors can open at any second.
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