There are many safety tips for cyclists that you should follow if you’re gearing up for a bike ride. Being aware of proper safety guidelines will keep you safer on your bike, but also protect traffic around you. The first step is, of course, to wear a helmet. You also need to make sure the rest of your gear is up to scratch. Know the rules of the road before you set off, and always stay alert while riding. You can stay safe and enjoy your ride as long as your pay attention to the traffic around you and prepare ahead of time for your trip.
Safety Tips for Cyclists on the Road: Share the Road Safely
Wear a Helmet
The most important of the safety tips for cyclists on the road is to wear a helmet. Many bike accidents involve spine or head injuries, and a helmet can help protect you in the event of a crash. It’s also important to make sure that your helmet fits properly, otherwise, it will not work as well. Style is not nearly as important as safety. So find a helmet with good reviews, or buy it from a reputable store with staff that can help you properly size it for your head. A proper helmet should be worn any time you’re on the road, whether you’re biking in traffic or going for a slow beach ride.
Proper Equipment
More safety tips for cyclists on the road include making sure that the rest of your gear is safe too. The clothing you wear should be tight fitting so that you won’t catch a loose pant leg in your bike’s wheels. Make sure shoelaces are all tied tightly as well. You should try to wear bright colors so you’re easy to see. If you plan to ride at night, make sure your clothing has reflective pieces, as well as your bike. You should also get a white light for the front of your bike, and a red brake light for the back. This will help cars see you when it’s dark out. Finally, make sure that your bike is in good condition and well-maintained.
Rules of the Road
Following the rules of the road is part of the important safety tips for cyclists. Bikers need to follow the same rules as motorists, including yielding for pedestrians. Follow all posted signs and make sure that you’re using hand signals to alert other drivers of where you’re going next. Never make sudden movements. In addition, never swerve in front of other traffic. Remember to stay in the designated bike lane when available. And if you are riding with a friend, you should only ride in a single file.
Stay Alert
Finally, one final piece of the safety tips for cyclists is to always stay alert and aware on the road. Of course, this means only riding when you are sober. All states require that you be sober when bicycling on the streets. It’s important to know when to be extra cautious. Most bicycle accidents occur between 6 pm-9 pm when visibility is low and traffic is high. Be even more careful than usual when traveling during these hours, or when on busy roads. Never ride with headphones in because you need to be able to hear traffic around you. And don’t let your cellphone be a distraction.
Safety tips for cyclists are so important to keep you safe as a rider, and the rest of traffic safe around you. If you moved suddenly and caused an accident, other drivers and pedestrians could be hurt as well. The most important thing is to always wear a helmet and other safety gear to make sure that you are protected and clearly visible. Always follow the rules of the road just like other drivers. And finally, never ride when you are intoxicated or under the influence. Always be alert and aware when riding so you can be a good defensive bike rider. Hopefully, by remembering these safety tips, you’ll stay safer on the road and keep everyone around you safe as well.