Bike Safety
01 Protect Your Head
Wear a helmet. It's never too early to start wearing a helmet
02 Stay Visible
If drivers can see you, they are less likely to hit you. Use lights when biking at night or in low-light conditions.
03 Look and Signal
Look, signal, then look again. Use hand signals to let drivers and other bicyclists know where you're going. Look and make eye contact. Don't assume drivers will stop.
04 Stay Alert
Keep a lookout for obstacles in your path.
05 Go with the Flow
Bike in the direction of traffic.
06 Act Like a Car
Drivers are used to the patterns of other drivers. Don't weave in and out of traffic. The more predictably you ride, the safer you are. Check for traffic. Be aware of traffic around you.
07 Don't Get Distracted
Don't listen to music or talk on the phone while riding.
08 Follow the Law
Obey all traffic laws and lights.
09 Assure Readiness
Is your bicycle properly adjusted? Is your saddle in a comfortable position? Do a quick bicycle test. Check your brakes and your wheels. Make sure the "quick release" wheels are properly secured.
Be Bright: Use Lights and Reflectors at Night.
A white headlight and red rear reflector are required by law.
Additional lights and reflectors can be used as well.
Add lights and reflectors to outline your body and identify yourself as a person.
Lights and reflectors that move (leg bands, pedal reflectors) catch a driver's attention.
Flashing red lights can be used as well.
A flashing light is better at getting the driver's attention, while a solid light makes it easier for drivers to judge your speed and distance.
Adding reflective leg bands, lights that move or flash and wearing a reflective vest or other clothing will help to identify you as a bicyclist to other drivers.
Your front light should allow you to see the road far enough ahead to avoid a hazard. At 15mph, you should be able to see at least 35-50 feet in front of you, and even farther under more adverse road or weather conditions.
You need lights on paths and sidewalks as well, so you can see and be seen by other bicyclist, pedestrians and cross traffic.
