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Community Services Riding a bicycle is more than basic transportation; it can be a fun and exciting hobby.   When you ride you're not alone.  You share the road with cars, trucks, pedestrians, and other cyclists.  Since accidents can turn a bicycling adventure into a bicycling tragedy, here are some tips to help make your ride a safe one.
1. PROTECT YOUR HEAD
Wear a helmet.
Studies have shown that using a bicycle helmet can reduce head injuries by up to 85%.   Select a helmet that has a snug but comfortable fit.  Look for the helmet labels that show they are recommended by either the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the Snell Memorial Foundation.

2. SEE AND BE SEEN
Wear proper clothes.
Wear clothes that make you more visible.  Clothing should be light in color and close fitting to avoid being caught in the bicycle's moving parts.  Also, be sure that books and other loose items are secured to the bike or are carried in a back pack.

3. GO WITH THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC
The safe way is the right way.
You must obey the rules of the road.  These include all traffic signs, signals and road markings.  Ride on the right side of the street in single file.  Use proper hand signals.  Never weave from lane to lane or tailgate to hitch rides on moving cars or trucks.

4. LOOK BOTH WAYS
Be aware of traffic around you.
Seven out of ten car-bicycle crashes occur at driveways or other intersections.   Before you enter a street or intersection, check for traffic and always look left-right-left.  Walk your bicycle across busy streets at corners or crosswalks.

5. LOOK BOTH WAYS
Keep a look-out for obstacles in your path.
Watch out for potholes, sewer gratings, cracks, railroad tracks, loose gravel and broken glass.  Before going around any object, look ahead and behind you for a free gap in traffic.  Plan your move, and then signal your intentions.  Be especially careful in wet weather, as water can make you slip and make your brakes work improperly.

6. BEWARE THE DARK SIDE
Be cautious when biking at night.
If you have to ride at night, display front and rear reflectors on your bicycle.   Wear reflective clothing or materials, especially on your ankles, wrists, back and helmet.  Ride in areas that are familiar and on streets that are brightly lighted.

7. GO OFF-ROAD
Follow designated bike routes if available.
Bicycle routes are marked by special signs or lines.  Bike paths are special areas reserved for bikes.  Become familiar with such accommodations for cyclists in your area.

8. FIX IT UP
Make sure your bicycle is adjusted properly.
Your bicycle should be correctly adjusted to fit you; your feet should rest on the ground while sitting in the seat.  Before using you bike, check to make sure that all parts are secure and working.  The handlebars should be firmly in place and turn easily; the wheels should be straight and secure.

9. STOP IT
Check brakes before riding.
Control your speed by using your brakes.  If your bicycle has hand brakes, apply the rear brakes slightly before the front brake.  Remember to ride slowly in wet, slippery weather and to apply brakes earlier since it takes more distance to stop.

10. DON'T FLIP YOUR BIKE
Wheels should be securely fastened.
Check wheels before every ride, after every fall, or after transporting your bicycle to be sure that they are fastened and secure.  Make sure that tires are properly installed.

11. PROTECTING YOUR BIKE AGAINST THEFT
A Bicycle can be stolen from just about any place, but simple precautions can deter would-be bike thieves.  Remember, most bikes are that are stolen are not locked!
  • Always lock your bicycle securely, whether you're gone for a few minutes or a few hours.   Use a U-lock, securing both wheels and the frame to a stationary object such as a post, fence, tree, or bike rack.  For extra security, add a chain or cable with a good padlock.
  • Record the serial number of your bicycle and keep it with the sales receipt and a photograph of the bike.
  • Mark your bicycle with an engraver to deter thieves and to help the police in identifying and returning a stolen bike to the rightful owner.  Use a unique number such as your social security number.
TAKE ACTION FOR BICYCLE SAFETY
  • Parents, schools, and young people can work together to identify safe routes to school and develop bicycle safety education programs.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and police departments offer booklets and other information explaining bicycle safety rules and suggestions for teaching them.
  • Teach safety through a Bicycle Rodeo.  This even can help to teach children the rules of the road and offer neighbors a chance to work together.  Activities are limited only by the site and your group's imagination.  Typical events include a safety check for bicycles, testing of rider skills, and contests such as a bicycle obstacle course.
For more information about bicycle safety contact the Community Services Division at (850) 747-4700 ext. 2300 or send email to cmsd@bayso.org

Last Edited: Tuesday, January 08, 2008