Rules for Safe Biking

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

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