Bicycle Safety
The Importance of Bicycle Safety
Cycling is a well-known past time for both adults and children; however before riders pull their bikes out, they should be aware of all bicycle safety rules. Every year over 300,000 accidents occur because people ride without knowing correct bicycle safety. All cycling enthusiasts should follow bicycle safety rules at all times no matter their age or experience.
The Basics of Cycling
The most popular bicycle safety rule is to wear a helmet. Out of all bicycle
accidents reported in emergency rooms, brain injuries are the most common.
These injuries can affect a person their whole life and even lead to death.
Wearing a helmet has become so important that the United States government
has stepped in with guidelines for cyclists regarding the correct way to
wear a helmet. Riders must always have a CPSC (Consumer Product Safety
Commission) sticker on their helmet. The helmet must fit properly and
reflective stickers are a great idea. Never ride without buckling your
chinstrap; not doing so could cause your helmet to fly off or the strap to
flap in your face while riding, causing dangerous distraction.
There are other key bicycle safety rules that should be followed for an absolute safe ride. Always make sure your chain is oiled and that your handlebars and seat are adjusted properly and screwed in tightly. It is very important that your breaks are working properly; this should always be checked before taking off down the road. It is also a good idea to check your tire pressure. The bottom line is that proper and regular bicycle maintenance greatly reduces the chances of an accident due to bicycle malfunction.
Cycling Apparel; What You Wear Can Keep You Safe
It is crucial to wear the correct cycling apparel when riding. Wearing protective clothing is a very smart idea. Never wear flips flops or ride your bicycle barefoot, this could be very bad if the shoe or rider’s foot gets caught in the pedal. Riders should always wear closed-toed shoes. Wearing reflective and bright clothing is very useful in helping motorists spot cyclists on the road at night. The bright clothing is very helpful during daytime riding as well. Protective eyewear is a good idea because of debris that can fly up and strike a rider in the face, particularly the eyes.
Remember, You Are Part of Traffic
Cyclists should always make sure they know the hand signals used while
cycling and the proper rules for driving on roads, such as driving with
the traffic and not towards the traffic. A cyclist should never ride
across intersections. While cycling all cyclists should walk their bike
across any busy intersection and follow all traffic signals. Cyclists
should always ride single-file and not beside each other. It is best for
children under the age of 10 to ride on sidewalks or bike paths, due to
the heavy traffic on roads. It is smart to watch out for changes in the
roads, sidewalks or bike paths so that you will not run into an unleveled
surface while cycling. It is smart for a child to have a fluorescent flag
on the back of their bike, so that they can be seen at all times while
riding.
Bicycle safety is very important to learn for anyone that finds interest in riding. There are many rules and tips that will help make your cycling experience pleasurable and safe. Bicycle shops offer many extras, such as reflectors, horns and blinkers that help to give your bike extra safety precautions. Remember to purchase a helmet that is made to fit you as an individual. Wearing bright colors and reflective gear make for a safe ride. It is a good idea to ride with a friend as often as possible, incase of an accident. Cycling is a great sport and hobby, but it is best to be safe while doing it!