Bike safety can be a matter of life and death, and can certainly impact the fun you have bicycling in your neighborhood, on trails or anywhere for that matter. But many people who ride aren't aware of all the rules and etiquette of bicycling, particularly as they relate to interaction with pedestrians and motorists.
Myth 1: Bike Helmets Are Only for Kids
Bicyclists who are injured or who die in accidents are much more likely to be adults than children. The Bike Helmet Safety Institute reports that the average age of bicyclist injured on the road is 31 and that the average age of bicyclists killed on the road is 41. The BHSI also reports that once bike helmet laws requiring kids to wear helmets started going into effect in the early 2000s, young bicyclist fatalities dropped significantly.
Myth 2: It's OK to Buy Child a Bike She Can "Grow Into"
Oversized bikes can be dangerous because children don't have as much control, particularly if they have to put their feet down to stop or control their bikes. A properly sized bike should allow the rider to sit on the seat and have the balls of her feet touch the ground when her legs are extended.
Myth 3: Only Cars Need to Observe Traffic Light Signals
Cars and bicycles must observe traffic lights, stops signs and all other rules of the road. Bikes are like any other vehicle on the road, which means rules regarding right-of-way, reckless driving, and all traffic signs and lights must be followed by motorists and riders alike.
Myth 4: Bikes Should Ride Against Traffic to Better See What's Coming
Bikes need to be riding in the same direction as traffic, which means sticking to the right side of the road whenever possible. Cars are also supposed to keep at least 3 feet from bikes, even if there's a bike lane.
Myth 5: Bicyclists Must Ride in Bike Lane Or Trail If One Is Provided
Bicyclists are encouraged to use bike lanes and trails, but there are circumstances that make their use inappropriate or unsafe. For example, bike trails have speed limits that restrict the ability of more serious riders to ride fast. Also, parked cars or dangerous road conditions may make riding in a bike lane impossible for unsafe.
Myth 6: Bicyclists Cannot Ride on Sidewalks
Some cities and towns forbid bicyclists from riding on sidewalks in busy areas with lots of pedestrians. Often, those sidewalks are posted with signs explaining the rules. In general, however, bicyclists and pedestrians can share sidewalks.
Myth 7: Kids Shouldn't Use Hand Signals Because They Could Lose Control
Kids should be taught the basic hand signals for turning left, right and stopping. In an area without motorized vehicle traffic, children should practice using signals while using the other hand to safely steer.
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