Riding a bicycle is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around. But if not done right, riding a bicycle can also be a dangerous way to get around. Safety tips for cyclists are just as essential for the cyclist’s safety as they are for everyone else on the road.
1. Know the Rules for the State
While there are some cycling rules that are shared everywhere, there are others that are specific to a particular state. Cyclists will do well to make sure they are fully aware of the traffic laws and cycling rules for their state rather than simply assuming.
2. Stay On the Street
In many states, it’s either illegal or unsafe to bike on the sidewalk. While it can be a bit scary to ride on the road with cars, it’s all part of the necessary safety tips for cyclists. Cyclists should ride in the direction of traffic and make sure they don’t ride too close to curb so that they don’t accidentally take a tumble.
3. Ride With Traffic
In areas where traffic and cyclists are going the same speed, it’s okay for cyclists to jump in with traffic. Not only is this a good way to remain visible, it might be necessary if the roads are especially narrow. It’s recommended that cyclists join in with traffic before an intersection so that drivers will see them before turning.
4. Make Solid Eye Contact
It’s vitally important that cyclists make solid eye contact with drivers so that they can be sure the driver sees them and is aware of their intentions. Another good thing about making eye contact is that motorists are more likely to respect the cyclist.
5. Stay Consistent
No matter how tempting it might be to weave through cars in an effort to reach a destination faster, cyclists should always remain consistent in their riding habits. The reason for this is that motorists might not be prepared for a cyclist to appear out of nowhere, which can lead to an accident or the cyclist being squeezed out of traffic.
Safety tips for cyclists are just as essential as wearing a helmet. Cyclists should always make sure they’re up-to-date on the latest cycling laws for their state and make sure that they actually follow those laws.
Related article: Cycling Safety Equipment from SunnySports
Featured Image from Tessa Rampersad/Unsplash
