Bicycle
Safety Tips
Wear a helmet. Even
a minor crash may result in serious head and brain injury. Statistics
show that between 70-80% of all fatal bicycle crashes involve
head injuries. Although helmet usage is very low (15-18%), studies
have proven that bicycle helmets are 85-88% effective in preventing
total head and brain injuries.
Always pass on the left, and let the biker know that you're
passing. A friendly "passing on the left" is always
appreciated. If you don't let the other guy know you're coming
up on his left, he could suddenly drift over to the left or decide
to make a u-turn. This would not be a friendly introduction!
It is safest to ride single file. This is especially
important as you're approaching blind curves. You never know if
a racing bicyclist is going to meet you head-on. Ouch!
Always ride with the traffic flow, and as close to the
right edge of the road as possible. I avoid road trails whenever
possible.
Avoid riding at night if possible; it's just too dangerous.
If you ride in the dark, the law says your bike must have a front
light that is visible at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector
that can be seen for up to 600 feet. Always wear white or reflective
clothing when riding at night.
Ride one to a bike. Your bike is harder to balance with
another person on it, and a passenger may block your view of what
is in front of you.
Keep both hands on the handlebars. Use a backpack or a
bike carrier to hold your books, lunch or other items. Ride more
slowly on wet streets, loose gravel (I've had a few nasty spills
this way!), or bumpy roads.
Always slow down at an intersection or railroad crossing.
It's best to walk your bike across the street. Look both ways,
and also check traffic behind you. You've got to look out for
cars making a right turn into your path.
Observe all traffic signals and signs. They're not just
meant for cars. Stop at red lights and stop signs, yield to pedestrians,
and stay off the sidewalks whenever possible.
Use appropriate arm signals to "talk"
to cars, trucks, and bikers.
Be alert for cars pulling out and make eye contact with
the drivers to ensure you have been seen.
Do not weave between parked cars.
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