Montlick & Associates

Kids & Teens

Safety Tips

Bicycle Safety

BICYCLE SAFETY

Bicycle Safety Do you know the rules of the road when you ride a bike?

Biking on main roads or in traffic can be dangerous. It's crucial to stay alert and be cautious. Remember, you may be riding a bike-but you're actually driving the same way you would if you were in a car. Always follow traffic signals and road signs, just like cars do.

How can you make biking in city situations as safe as possible? Well, let's find out. How many of these rules do you already follow?

  1. Always ride on the RIGHT. Remember to 'go with the flow'. Never, ever ride against traffic. Cars will not be expecting to find a biker when they round a corner or go over a hill.
  2. Ride single file. When passing other bikers or pedestrians, let them know your position by shouting out something like, 'On your left!'
  3. Always check behind you when changing lanes.
  4. Watch out for dangerous things in the road way. Road litter, potholes, gravel and storm grates can all cause you to lose control.
  5. Stop at all stop signs and at all street lights. Be extra careful at crossroads.
  6. Always signal before making a left or right turn. To make a left turn: look behind you, hold your left arm straight out and proceed carefully. For a right turn hold your left arm out and bend your forearm to make an 'L' shape.
  7. Keep control of your bike. Don't swerve or make sudden turns. Drivers may not be able to react fast enough to avoid colliding with you.
  8. Ride at least 3 feet away from parked cars. Someone could open their door unexpectedly.
  9. Listen for cars approaching from the side or behind you.
  10. Don't follow cars too closely (you may be in their blind spot).
  11. Know your road signs and obey them. A smart biker follows the rules of the road.
  12. Always be prepared to stop. Keep your hands on or close to the brakes.

Avoid the "Danger Zones" when Riding a Bike

Learn to see and be seen in traffic. A bike is a like a car when it comes to the rules of the road. Here are some ways to avoid the "danger zones":

  1. Bikers should always stop and look for traffic when entering the road; especially from a driveway, alley or curb. Always stop at a stop sign or red light.
  2. Go with the flow of traffic. Ride on the right, the same way as a car.
  3. Avoid riding at night. Avoid dark conditions, narrow roads, and roads with cars traveling faster than 35 mph. If you have to ride at night, use reflectors, lights and retro-reflective clothing.
  4. Be predictable. Ride in a straight line. Look behind you before changing lanes or turning, use your hand signal and proceed carefully.
  5. Obey all traffic signs and signals. Walk your bicycle across busy intersections.

Some things in the street are more dangerous than you think!

Watch out for:

  • wet leaves
  • puddles of water
  • patches of ice
  • loose gravel
  • rocks
  • broken glass
  • cracks in the road

Be prepared to ride around obstacles: watch out especially for storm grates, railroad tracks and opening car doors.

Remember, Be Smart, Be Safe!