With the weather warming up across the country, spring is an excellent time to start spending more time outdoors. And what better way to enjoy the local scenery than from the seat of a bike?
While bike riding can be a great form of exercise and good option for going green, the Center for Disease Control informs us that approximately 800 people die each year due to bicycle-related accidents. That makes up approximately 2% of the annual traffic accident total, according to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The League of American Bicyclists has dubbed May official Bike Month, and in fact, this Friday, May 17, is National Bike to Work Day. So it seems an appropriate time to review a few basic bike safety tips.
Whether you’re on a tricycle, a unicycle, or a penny-farthing, here are a few ways to keep everyone safe on the road.
Opening Car Doors: It is the responsibility of both the driver and the cyclist to ensure the coast is clear before a car door is opened. If you are the driver, before opening your door, look out the window and over your left shoulder to see if anyone is coming — car or bike. And if you’re a bicyclist, make sure you give yourself enough room next to a parked car just in case a door does open suddenly.
Right-of-Way: It’s important for bikers and drivers to remember that they are all required to follow the same basic traffic laws. Yet motorists are expected to yield the right of way to a bike at intersections, when changing lanes, and making left- or right-hand turns.
Passing: Remember there are more than just cars using the roadways, so it’s important to be kind and patient. If you’re passing a bicycle, slow down and go behind them — don’t speed up to go around or in front of a bike. If the road permits, a car should allow a bike 3 feet of clearance to pass.
Signal Your Turn: This applies to both bikes and cars — you can’t expect others on the road to anticipate your next move. Cars should always use their turn indicator light and bikers need to actively use hand signals before making a turn.
Obey Road Signs and Signals: All vehicles — cars, trucks, buses, bikes, motorcycles, etc. — are required to obey traffic signs and signals. This includes turn arrows, stop signs, yield signs, railroad crossings, and more. Some drivers may not be familiar with the distinct image of a sharrow, or a shared road arrow. Be sure you’re aware of what all signs and signals mean. Bikes and cars have the same privileges in these shared-driving areas.
Drive and Ride Defensively: Never assume you are seen by others on the road. For bikers, wearing safety gear like a helmet, a reflective vest, and using lights on the front and back of your bike can be lifesaving measures. Drivers also need to exercise caution to ensure they are seen. Checking to make sure lanes are clear before moving over or turning is a vital defensive driving technique that can prevent unnecessary accidents.
For additional bike safety tips you can check out the NHTSA section dedicated to bicycles. And of course, a traffic school course is always a great way to review safety strategies and rules of the road.