Bicycle Safety

Bicycles can be considered symbols of independence and freedom. They are also fun, providing riders a "greener," healthier form of transportation. Bicycles are also considered vehicles, and riders have a responsibility each time they take to the road. Even if you are an experienced cyclist, it’s a good idea to review the fundamentals periodically.

Bicycles in many States are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and the same responsibilities to follow the rules of the road as motorists. When riding, always:

• Go With the Traffic Flow. Ride on the right in the same direction as other vehicles. Go with the flow – not against it.
   
• Obey All Traffic Laws. A bicycle is a vehicle and you’re a driver. When you ride in the street, obey all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
   
• Yield to Traffic When Appropriate. Almost always, drivers on a smaller road must yield (wait) for traffic on a major or larger road. If there is no stop sign or traffic signal and you are coming from a smaller roadway (out of a driveway, from a sidewalk, a bike path, etc.), you must slow down and look to see if the way is clear before proceeding. This also means yielding to pedestrians who have already entered a crosswalk.
   
• Be Predictable. Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars. Signal your moves to others.
   
• Stay Alert at All Times. Use your eyes AND ears. Watch out for potholes, cracks, wet leaves, storm grates, railroad tracks, or anything that could make you lose control of your bike. You need your ears to hear traffic and avoid dangerous situations; don’t wear a headset when you ride.
   
• Look Before Turning. When turning left or right, always look behind you for a break in traffic, then signal before making the turn. Watch for left- or right-turning traffic.
   
• Watch for Parked Cars. Ride far enough out from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars (like doors opening, or cars pulling out).

Sidewalk versus Street Riding

The safest place for bicycle riding is on the street, where bicycles are expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorists and ride in the same direction.

• Children less than 10 years old, however, are not mature enough to make the decisions necessary to safely ride in the street.
   
• Children less than 10 years old are better off riding on the sidewalk.
   
• For anyone riding on a sidewalk:
   
  • Check the law in your state or jurisdiction to make sure sidewalk-riding is allowed.
     
  • Watch for vehicles coming out of or turning into driveways.
     
  • Stop at corners of sidewalks and streets to look for cars and to make sure the drivers see you before crossing.
     
  • Enter a street at a corner and not between parked cars. Alert pedestrians that you are nearby saying, “Excuse me,” or, “Passing on your left,” or use a bell or horn.

Source: NHTSA.gov