Before stepping foot on a bicycle, it is important to make certain that all of the proper safety precautions have been taken. These precautions include both bicycle safety knowledge and equipment safety knowledge, such as selecting a helmet that fits properly. Because even the most experienced bike riders are at risk for accidents and injury, using the proper safety techniques will ensure that you'll return home safely.
Significance
According to Kidshealth.org, more than 300,000 children are seen in the emergency room every year for bicycle-related injuries. Although not all of the injuries are preventable, a large number of the serious injuries, such as trauma to the head, could generally be reduced by wearing a proper helmet. It is important to note that children are not the only victims of bike accidents. According to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, the average age of those killed on a bicycle is 40. This shows that bicycle safety should be practiced by everyone, regardless of their age.
Prevention/Solution
All bicycle safety starts with the proper equipment, including a helmet. Even if you plan to be on your bike for only a short amount of time, a helmet should still be worn. When a helmet has been involved in a crash, it should be disposed of. Once a helmet has been in an accident, the protective foam may not absorb shocks properly. All helmets should have a safety strap that connects beneath the chin and a safety sticker showing that it meets all United States safety standards. Also, a helmet should be a bright, reflective color. Your strap should fit to where no more than two fingers will fit between it and your chin. This signifies that if an accident occurs, the helmet will not twist or fall off.
Considerations
Helmets are not the only important factor for safety when biking. You should also take certain precautions. This includes avoiding objects that may cause crashes such as wet leaves, rocks, storm grates, potholes or any surfaces that might be dangerous. You should also ride with traffic and never against it. Treat your bike as if it were a car. Always signal before making any turns, stop at all traffic lights and stop signs and only cross at intersections.
Geography
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that the street is the safest place to ride a bike. However, this is not always appropriate---especially in the case of young children. Children under 10 years old should not be allowed to ride their bike in the street. If your county or state laws allow it, a sidewalk is a viable option for young children to ride.
Expert Insight
The National Highway Traffic Administration has stated that the top reasons for crashes that result in serious injury or death include swerving into the side, riding against traffic, not stopping at a stop sign and failure to wear a helmet. To avoid accidents, make sure to always avoid any hazardous items on the roadway, minimize your distractions, keep your hands on your handlebars and stay in control of the bike at all times.
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