Bicycle Safety

For Drivers:

• Drive cautiously. The size of your vehicle vs. a bike is a mismatch. Respect the cyclist’s vulnerability, and watch out for young riders.
• Never forget the four-foot rule. It’s a law in most states that drivers must give cyclists at least four feet of clearance. This includes side mirrors, which many may forget about when driving a larger vehicle.
• Don’t speed up to pass or blow your horn. Both can unnerve any cyclist. Pass them smoothly, slowly and with patience.
• At all turns, use your turn signals and yield to cyclists. Intersections are where many car-bicycle collisions occur. Use your turn signals early and always. And, always yield to cyclists. Remember that you are protected, and they are not.

For Cyclists:

• Obey all rules of the road. Ride in the same direction as traffic. Stop at all stop signs. Stop at traffic lights. Don’t weave in and out of traffic.
• Wear a proper helmet. Your helmet must comply with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission standards. And, make sure it properly fits your head.
• Use hand signals and anticipate drivers’ intents. Always alert motorists as to your directional intentions with hand signals. Don’t count on drivers to always use their turn signals. Remember, seven-out-of-ten accidents occur at intersections and driveways.
• Make yourself more visible. Drivers may not see smaller vehicles like bikes or motorcycles. Make yourself seen by wearing bright colors or reflective gear, even in the daylight.
• Choose routes wisely. Map routes on wider, less-traveled roads or those with dedicated bike lanes. Make as few left turns as possible.

Just getting on your bike for the first time—or the first time in a long time? Investigate Valley Preferred Cycling Center’s Try the Track! program. The introductory clinic is for cyclists 12 and older who know how to ride a bike but wish to hone their skills.

Disclaimer: The information presented is for your general knowledge and does not replace the advice of a physician. All medical inquiries regarding your health should be presented to a physician.