By now, most cyclists know that they should wear a helmet and have reflectors and lights on bikes that will be ridden after dark. Even so, a 2008 National Survey of Bicyclist and Pedestrian Attitudes and Behavior found that only 35 percent of cyclists wear helmets every time they ride. Ninety-one percent of those who died in cycling accidents in 2008 were not wearing helmets.
Helmets
A helmet is still your best defense against bike injuries. A broken arm will heal. A head injury may lead to permanent brain damage or death. But wearing a helmet is not enough. Each rider should have a helmet professionally fitted for her at a reputable bike shop and should be taught how to wear it properly. Parents need to set an example by wearing helmets and by requiring that children wear them at all times. Twenty-one states have laws requiring young riders to wear helmets. If a helmet is involved in an accident, even if it does not appear to be damaged, it should be replaced.
Sharing the Road With Cars
Even if you wear a helmet, it won't protect you from cars. The most common bike-auto accident occurs when a car pulls out on the right of you. First, make sure you have and use headlights. Even in the daytime a headlight provides an extra layer of protection, especially if you have one that strobes. The best headlights are those worn on the helmet. You can also mount headlights on the andlebars or attach them to an arm or a leg. However, the helmet-mounted lights provide the best visibility since the light is projected in the direction you are looking as you turn your head.
A horn is a good warning system for bikes as well as for cars. However, a loud shout can also alert a driver that you are there. Many countries require bells on bikes, but the U.S. does not. If you can't get the driver's attention, slow down or stop. Never trust a driver to see you. Unless you make eye contact, assume you are invisible to the driver.
If you are riding in traffic, ride to the left, toward the center of the lane, if possible. Drivers often open their car doors without looking, and in terms of injuries, crashing into a car door is right up there with failure to wear a helmet.
Sidewalks
Do not ride on the sidewalk and expect to use the crosswalk. Sidewalks and crosswalks are for pedestrians. Drivers don't expect you to be there. Cyclists are expected to follow the same rules of the road as drivers.
Pedestrians can be a hazard to you, and you are clearly a hazard to them. Don't invite an accident. In many places, riding on the sidewalk is illegal and you will be held liable if you run down a pedestrian.
Blind Spots
If you drive, you are aware of the blind spots in your automobile. These are the perfect hiding spots for a cyclist. When you stop your bike at a red light, remain behind the cars where you can clearly be seen. If you pull up into a car's blind spot, you may be hit when traffic starts moving again and the driver decides to turn right into you. Always give cars the right of way.
Equipment
Always make sure your bicycle is in top condition and fix anything that requires attention before riding. Parents should conduct safety checks on their kids' bikes to make sure the seat, handlebars and wheels are on tight. Check the brakes and tires as well.
Equip your bike or your helmet with mirrors and use them. A bike should have a flash or strobe feature in front, either mounted on the handlebars or the rider's helmet, and a red rear light, also flashing, mounted to be visible from behind. If your bike has fenders or a rack, a light can be mounted there. If you don't use fenders or racks, there are lights that can be mounted on the rear wheel frame. Always make sure you have red reflectors as well in case your light fails.
Reflective clothing also helps motorists see you. Many contemporary jackets come with reflective strips, or you can purchase reflective vests or tape at most bike or sporting goods stores.
Always wear sneakers or cycling shoes, and use gloves to help you grip the handlebars. Never wear headphones while riding.
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