Bicycle Safety

As transportation, bicycles have a lot going for them; they're efficient, non-polluting, and relatively inexpensive. But as a practical matter, sharing the road with automobiles can present a few problems.

And because of the vast difference in size and weight, accidents involving bicycles and motor vehicles can have serious consequences. Let's face it: a 20 or 30-pound bike is no match for a 2 or 3-ton car or truck.

If you ride a bike on the street, it is up to you to take extra precautions regarding your safety.

Let's get visible

A bike can be hard for drivers to see. So wear bright colors during the day and light, reflective colors at night. Always use lights and reflectors - front and rear - at night. Reflectors in your spokes and reflective tape on the frame will also help ensure visibility from the side.

A bike is a vehicle

When you ride a bicycle on public streets and roads, you are usually subject to the same traffic ordinances as other vehicles, even where special bike lanes are part of the roadway.

That means you must ride to the right, with the direction of traffic. You must obey all traffic laws, signs and lights, and signal when turning or changing lanes. You must also yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop for school buses loading or unloading students.

Whenever possible, choose lightly traveled roads and streets. Small children should not ride on the street at all. In some areas, it is permissible to ride bicycles on the sidewalk. In that case, riders follow the same precautions as pedestrians. Ride to the right, pass on the left. Cross intersections only when permitted and when traffic allows. Walk your bike across intersections when heavy traffic is present. And watch for cars crossing your path that are turning into and out of driveways, side streets and alleys. That means glancing over your shoulder (or into your rear-view mirror) as you approach these kinds of intersections.

Ride a safe machine

A bicycle is efficient because it is relatively simple. But that means that every part is essential and needs to be kept in good working order.

• Make sure the bike fits the rider. Younger kids should be able to straddle the bike with both feet on the ground. Adult seats should be adjusted so that feet are firmly on the pedals when legs are fully extended.
• The seat and handlebars should be aligned to point straight forward and tightened firmly so they won't shift while riding.
• Make sure brakes are working properly. Hand brakes should be adjusted so that the bike stops bully before the brake controls touch the handlebars.
• Smaller children should use coaster brakes.
• Keep the right tension on the chain. A chain that comes off the sprocket while pedaling can cause loss of control.
• Don't ride on broken or bent pedals. Replace them.
• Don't ride double. Most bikes aren't built or balanced for more than one rider.

Protect yourself

In many areas, bicyclists are required to wear a helmet. Having responded to many bike accidents, we think helmets are a must, whether or not they are required by law. Even a low speed spill can cause considerable injury to an unprotected head. Helmets are the least expensive investment you can make in bicycle safety.

And most importantly...

Stay sharp.

Keep your eyes and ears open and be aware of traffic around you at all times. Bikes can be fun. But take it from Rural/Metro: a bike on the street is serious business.

Please ride safely.