Pedal Your Way To Safety

Whether for commuting, fitness or recreation, cycling is one of the most popular outdoor activities for people of all ages. Unfortunately, along with the increase of cyclists has come an increase of bicycle accidents.

Biking accidents can be avoided. It is a matter of knowing your bike and the potential hazards associated with cycling.

In many cases, bicyclists involved in accidents either did not know or had a disregard for normal traffic rules and regulations. Be sure you adhere to traffic safety rules and guidelines. The bicycle is legally a vehicle and has the same rights and responsibilities as any other vehicle on the road.

If you haven't ridden a bike for a while or if you're teaching your child, learn how to drive it properly away from the traffic. Try a schoolyard or empty parking lot. Anyone interested in cycling is well advised to enroll in a reputable cycling safety course. Check with your local recreation department or police station for information.
Bicycles can be equipped with a tremendous range of accessories. Among the most important equipment items are those making you more visible in traffic. For example, safety flags and reflective devices are a must! In many vehicle/bicycle accidents, the motorist says they didn't see the cyclist until it was too late.

Selecting the right size of bicycle is particularly important. Some parents buy their children bicycles thinking they will grow into them. They are hoping to save money but they are actually buying trouble. Fatal accidents often occur as a result of loss of control. A bike that is too large or too small is uncomfortable and will be difficult to control.

To minimize possible head injury in a bicycle accident, always wear a helmet. Choose a safety-approved bike helmet and make sure it fits properly. Wear your helmet whenever you ride and make sure your children do too. Many bicyclists on center are not wearing helmets.

Don't be a road hog! When riding as a group, always ride in single file, never side by side. Don't carry passengers on your bike or hitch a ride by holding onto a moving vehicle.

After thoroughly learning about the bicycle, procedures for efficient operation and the associated hazards, you will be better prepared to prevent accidents associated with bicycling. Make sure your youngsters can demonstrate the rules of the road before setting out on their first trip, and that goes for adults too!

Remember, in a collision between a bicycle and a motor vehicle, the bicycle always loses!