Follow the Rules of the Road
- Ride with traffic and obey the same laws as motorists
- Use the rightmost lane that heads in the direction in which you are traveling
- Obey all traffic control devices, such as stop signs, lights, and lane markings
- Always look back and use hand and arm signals to indicate your intention to stop, merge, or turn
Be Visible
- Ride where drivers can see you
- Wear brightly colored clothing at all times
- At night, use a white front light and red rear light or reflector, and wear reflective tape or clothing
Be Predictable
- Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars
- Make your intentions clear to motorists and other road users
- Signal turns, and check behind you well before turning or changing lanes
- Make eye contact with motorists to let them know you are there
- Do not ride on the sidewalk
Think Ahead
- Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians, and other bicyclists will do next
- Be aware of traffic around you and be prepared to take evasive action
- Learn braking and turning techniques to avoid crashes
- Be extra alert at intersections
- Watch for turning vehicles and ride outside the door zone of parked cars
- Look out for debris, potholes, and utility covers
- Cross railroad tracks at right angles
Wear a Helmet
- Make sure that the helmet fits on top of your head, not tipped back or forward
- After a crash or any impact that affects your helmet, visible or not, replace it immediately
Ride Ready
- Be sure your tires have sufficient air, brakes are working, chain runs smoothly, and quick-release wheel levers are closed
- Carry repair and emergency supplies appropriate for your ride
Keep Your Cool
- Road rage benefits no one and always makes a bad situation worse
More Information
- League of American Bicyclists
- Vermont Bicycle Commuters Guide
- Article: New ‘Safe Passing’ Law To Help Bikers
- Bike-Walk Alliance of NH
- Bicycle Pedestiran Info Center – NHDOT
- Local Motion
- Safe Routes to School
- Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition
- New Hampshire Laws Pertaining to Bikes
- Upper Valley Women’s Cycling Club