Where I live, there are no sidewalks, but there are a ton of bikers. Biking is a great summer activity, but it's important to stay safe on the road. Here are a few biker tips to follow no matter where you ride:
- Don’t hog the road. Share it.
- Make eye contact, smile or wave to communicate with motorists. Courtesy and predictability are key to safe cycling.
- Be aware of pedestrians and other vehicles. Learn to anticipate their actions.
- Ride far enough from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars.
- Keep control of your bike. Make sure you are able to look behind you and ride with one hand while signaling.
- Always check behind you before changing lanes.
- Be aware of potential hazards like road litter, potholes, gravel and storm grates.
- Make sure that books, clothes and other items are securely attached to the bike or carried in a backpack.
- Use bells or horns to alert pedestrians and vehicles.
- You can see the car, but can the driver see you? Wear bright colored clothing (fluorescent colors if possible). Bright colors help ensure the driver will see you.
If you must ride at night …
- Wear light-colored clothing with retro-reflective triangular patches and wristbands.
- Equip your bike with reflectors on the front and rear. The rear reflector should be red and at least three inches across, pointed straight back to reflect the headlights of vehicles at least 600 feet away.
- Attach bike reflectors to the pedals and wheels.
- Use a bright, white headlight, preferably one that makes you visible to drivers 500 feet away.
Keep safe while you are out enjoying the wind in your face and the sun on your back.
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