We’ve gone over bike safety, but now it’s time to avoid getting hit by a motor vehicle.
Wearing a helmet is essential for protection but it is not the only thing to do to protect yourself. Much like driving a motor vehicle, you can wear a seat belt but if you drive erratically or distracted then chances are high that you will be involved in an accident sooner rather than later. So here are some pointers and need-to-know on keeping you and others safe.
Bike Riding and hand Signals:
These are used to let car drivers know what a bicyclist plans to do. Hand signals include:
- Left turn: Left arm extended straight out
- Right turn: Left arm bent up at the elbow, or right arm extended straight out
- Stopping: Left arm bent down at the elbow
Unlike running, where you typically run against traffic, National Highway and Traffic Safety Admin. say you should bike with the flow of traffic.
Keep to the right but ride far enough out from the curb to avoid cars pulling out or car doors opening.
A bicycle is a vehicle, so you must obey all traffic laws, signs, signals, and lane markings.
Traffic and pedestrians have the right of way. Bike riders should always assume that the driver can’t see them unless you make eye contact.
Make yourself noticed. Wear bright clothing or reflective gear. If you are passing pedestrians, alert them by saying, “passing on your left” or using a bell or horn.
Next to wearing a helmet, the most important thing to remember is to keep your phone out of your hand and ear buds out of your ears. No distractions. You need to hear for other vehicles coming behind, around or surprising you pulling out of a driveway.
Hopefully this gives you a basic idea of how to keep you and others around you safe on the road and trails. Get out there, be aware of whats around you, and most of all enjoy yourself.
By: Stephanie Jones, AT
Sources:
National Highway and Traffic Safety Admin: http://www.nhtsa.gov/Bicycles
10 ways to not get hit: http://bicyclesafe.com/
http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/bike/kidsandbikesafetyweb/