Bike Safety
June 11, 2018
Use your head; wear a helmet. Bike accidents account for most sports-related emergencies for kids ages 5 to 14. Many can be prevented with a helmet. Having one that fits properly is just as important as wearing it.
- Look up – if you see the bottom rim, it fits.
- Check your ears – if the straps form a “V” under your ears when buckled, it fits.
- Open your mouth – if the helmet hugs your head when you open your mouth, it fits.
Simple Safety Tips
- Wear bright-colored clothing.
- Dress for the weather.
- Never ride with headphones.
- Use a backpack to carry items.
- Ride with a friend.
- Make sure someone knows where you’re going.
- Make sure tires are properly inflated.
- Use lights at night.
Rules of the Road
- Look both ways before crossing traffic.
- Obey traffic signs and signals – just like other vehicles.
- Follow lane markings – don’t turn left from the right lane or go straight in a “right turn only.”
- Scan the road behind you – look over your shoulder without losing balance or swerving. Consider using rear-view mirrors.
- Keep both hands ready for braking.
- Use hand signals to advise others of your intentions.
- Choose the best way to turn left – like an auto: signal to move into the left turn lane, then turn left; like a pedestrian, ride straight to the far-side crosswalk, then walk your bike across.
- Make eye contact with drivers.
- Watch for road hazards – like sewer grates, gravel, ice, sand or debris.
- Cross railroad tracks at right angles.