As a cyclist, there are guidelines and rules-of-the-road (and the State) that you must follow for safety’s sake, as well as the assurance of a more pleasant ride.
(And when riding with children, teach them to be good cyclists by ensuring that they also learn about and follow these guidelines!)
Act Safely and Predictably
- Wear a properly fitted helmet.
- Ride in a straight line.
- Stay right, pass left.
- Be seen. Wear light/bright clothing. Use a headlight and taillight.
- Be courteous and a good bike ambassador.
Stay Alert
- Momentary inattention is the number one cause of incidents.
- Watch for vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians and hazards (e.g. curbs, potholes, railroad tracks, glass, debris)
- Do not wear earbuds or use phones while riding.
Maintain Space
- Move off the road or trail when stopped.
- Leave enough room in front of you to avoid other riders, vehicles and hazards.
- Ride at least four feet from parked cars, outside the door zone.
Respect the Rules of the Road
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Bicycles are allowed to treat stop signs as yields if no other vehicles or pedestrians are present.
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping — if it is safe to do so. Show everyone around you what you are going to do before you do it.
- In most cases, riding single file is safer. Bicyclists have the legal right to ride two abreast and/or to take the full lane when necessary to have adequate space to ride safely.
- Yield to pedestrians. They have the right of way.
In Group Rides, Think Ahead and Talk
- Scan ahead and anticipate what others will do.
- Tell others what you are going to do by saying: “Stopping”, “Slowing”, “Passing on your left”.
- Announce “Broken” when the group becomes separated.
- Call out hazards such as: “Glass”, “Sand”, “Post”. Use your outside voice.
- Do not yell “Clear” at intersections. Everyone should check for themselves.
- Cross railroad tracks at a right angle whenever possible. Warn other riders and plan your approach to ensure safe crossing.
CLICK HERE to get a printable PDF of these Ride Smart Biking Tips.
With acknowledgement to Cascade Bicycle Club.
For further information, contact Dave at Bike@wabiburien.org
