Bicycle Safety Tips
It's simple! Follow the "rules of the road". With few exceptions, when operating a bicycle on the streets and highways you must comply with the motor vehicle traffic regulations of your state and locality. Yes, you have all the rights of a motor vehicle driver, but you also have the same responsibilities they do. That means you must drive on the right side of a two way street, except when overtaking or passing. You must obey traffic lights and signs. At uncontrolled intersections, remember the vehicle on the left yields the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.
Where bike paths or lanes are available, use them. When traveling with a group, it is best to ride single file and never more than two abreast.
Signals are important. Turning right? Extend your right hand and arm in a horizontal position straight from and level with your shoulder beyond the right side of your bicycle. Turning left? Extend your left arm straight and level to the left side of your bike. For slowing down or stopping, extend your arm downward to your side. By following the regulations applicable to motor vehicles (which the law requires you to do, like it or not), you make it less likely a motor vehicle driver will misunderstand what you are doing and where you are going. Such misunderstandings cause accidents.
Wear a helmet! Because head injuries are ordinarily the most serious type of injury in bicycle accidents, always wear a helmet when cycling. Your helmet should meet U.S. government safety standards. Check for the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) sticker. Make sure your helmet fits securely and is level on your head. The straps should be fastened snugly. Worn improperly, your helmet will not protect you as it is designed to do. And how old is your helmet anyway? You may need to replace it if it's more than 20 years old or if it lacks the CPSC (or ASTM or Snell) label. If the helmet foam is cracked, if the helmet doesn't fit correctly or if the helmet has been banged up in a crash, replace it.
Visibility is key! If a motor vehicle driver can't see you, he won't take steps to avoid hitting you. Wear light colored clothing that stands out such as yellow or white. Tie a reflector strap around your pant leg or wear a jacket or shoes furnished with reflector tape. Attach a lamp to the front of your bicycle for use at night, during twilight hours, or in bad weather. A tail light is a good idea as well.
Check your equipment before you ride! Are your brakes in good repair and are they correctly adjusted? You don't want to ride a bike with worn brake pads or faulty cables. Are your tires properly inflated and in good condition? It is always a good idea to oil your chain regularly and ensure it is in good working order. Make certain your bicycle seat, handlebars, and wheels aren't loose, that they fit tightly.
These are just a few tips for safer cycling. Use your common sense and always remain alert to your surroundings and nearby vehicles. Bicycling is great exercise and a wonderful hobby. Just make sure you remember the safety rules while you enjoy the ride.
About the Author
Elizabeth M. Allen, of the law firm Allen, Allen, Allen and Allen, has been a
personal injury attorney
engaged in the practice of
personal injury law
for over 30 years. Allen and Allen has been protecting the rights of injured victims in Virginia and throughout the Mid-Atlantic for nearly a century. They can be found online at: http://www.allenandallen.com .
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