With some basic rules and common sense, you can remain safe whether you are riding on a city street or country road. Most basic bicycling rules are state law. It is always advisable to check with your local DMV for more information. To minimize hazards avoid riding in poor visibility, always be aware of traffic and wear the proper gear.
Safety
Always wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet protects your head from trauma if you fall, can save your life and is the law in many states. Secure loose articles such as pants, shoelaces, backpack straps, which could get caught in the chain and spokes of the wheels. Always do a standard safety check before setting out. Make sure your handlebars are tight, the brakes are working, chains are not loose and tires are inflated to the proper pressure. When possible bring an additional tube and small bicycle pump to fix a blown tire. When possible bring an additional tube and small bicycle pump to fix a blown tire. Always ride with proper identification.
Be Visible
Be visible during the day by wearing bright clothing or a reflective vest. Headlights, taillights and reflective vests should always be worn while riding at night. Always stay visible to motorists and avoid their blind spots. Leave plenty of distance between you and the cars.
Children
Because children sit lower than adults, cars often have difficulty seeing them at night, making night riding hazardous. During the day, children should only ride on sidewalks or designated bike paths and follow pedestrian rules. Bikes should always fit children properly for easier maneuvering and stopping. A bike that is too tall can make it difficult to control and stop properly, which can result in injury.
Rules of the Road
When bike riding in the street, obey all traffic signs and signals. Always ride with traffic and never against. Use hand signals when turning or stopping. Ride in a straight line whenever possible and do not weave between cars. Obey lane markings; if you are in a right-hand turn lane, turn right; do not go straight it confuses motorists. Never pass on the right, which makes it easy to get caught in the blind spot. When possible make eye contact with motorists and confirm they know you where you are. Look down the road for hazards, sewer grates, animals and potholes, which can cause accidents. Stay 1 yard from curbs and parked cars.
Rural and Urban Streets
While riding in urban areas, keep your guard up; cars and pedestrians will appear out of nowhere and without warning from garages, blind alleys and street parking spots. Motorists experience many distractions while driving in crowded streets, bicycle riders are a small part of the environment. Give yourself extra time to react and always be in a position where motorist can see you. When riding in rural areas, be aware of blind hills, animals and cars on blind curves. If you plan on riding long distances in the country, always carry a spare tube and bicycle pump. Always let someone know when and where you will be riding.
Member Comments