BIKE SAFETY

When you ride on the road, your bike is a vehicle and you must obey traffic laws.

• Scan the road behind. Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving left. Some riders use helmet-mounted or bike-mounted rear-view mirrors. Always look back before changing lanes or changing positions within your lane, and only move when no other vehicle is in your way.
  
  
• Go slowly on sidewalks and bike paths. Pedestrians have the right-of-way. Give pedestrians audible (horn/bell/word) warning when you pass. Don't cross driveways or intersections without slowing to walker's pace and looking very carefully for traffic, especially traffic turning right.
  
  
  • When on the road, ride in a straight line whenever possible. Ride with, not against, the traffic. Keep to the right, but stay about a car-door-width away from parked cars.
    
    
  • Avoid road hazards. Watch out for parallel-slat sewer grates, slippery manhole covers, oily pavement, gravel and water. Cross railroad tracks and speed bumps carefully at right angles.
  
  
  
• Choose the best way to turn left. There are two ways to make a left turn:
  
  
  1. Like an auto, look, signal, move into the left lane, and turn left.
  
  2. Like a pedestrian, ride straight to the far-side crosswalk. Walk your bike across.
  
  
  • Obey traffic signs and signals. By law, cyclists must obey traffic laws.
    
    
  • Ride a properly equipped bike.
    
    1. Always use a strong headlight and taillight at night and when visibility is poor.
    
    2. Be sure your bike is adjusted to fit you properly.
    
    3. For safety and efficiency, outfit it with a horn/bell, rear-view mirror(s), fenders (for rainy rides), and racks, baskets or bike bags.

How to Ride in Traffic:

Rule 1: Be Predictable

Ride so drivers can see you and predict your movements.

1. Obey traffic signs and signals. Bicycles must obey traffic laws like other vehicles.

2. Never ride against traffic. Motorists aren't looking for bicyclists riding on the left side of the road. Ride on the right, with the traffic.

3. Use hand signals when initiating a turn. Hand signals tell motorists what you intend to do. Signal as a matter of law, of courtesy and of self-protection.

4. Ride in a straight line. Whenever possible, ride in a straight line, to the right of traffic but about a car-door-width away from parked cars.

5. Don't weave between parked cars. Don't ride over to the curb between parked cars, unless they are far apart. Motorists may not see you when you move back into traffic.

6. Ride in the middle of the lane in slow traffic. Get in the middle of the lane at busy intersections and whenever you are moving at the same speed as traffic.

7. Follow lane markings. Don't turn left from the right lane. Don't go straight in a lane marked right-turn-only.

8. Choose the best way to turn left. Remember: There are two ways to make a left turn. 1) Like an auto. Signal, move into the left lane and turn left. 2) Like a pedestrian.

9. Don't pass on the right. Motorists may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the right.

10. Go slow on shared paths. Yield to pedestrians. Give pedestrians audible warning when you pass. Do not ride on sidewalks where prohibited.

11. When biking with others, ride in line when other traffic is present.

Rule 2: Be Alert

Ride defensively and expect the unexpected.

1. Watch for cars pulling out. Make eye contact with drivers. Assume they don't see you until you are sure they do.

2. Scan the road behind. Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving left. Some riders use rear-view mirrors.

3. Avoid road hazards. Watch for sewer grates, slippery manhole covers, oily spots, gravel, or water. Cross railroad tracks carefully at right angles.

4. Keep both hands ready to brake. You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain.

5. Watch for chasing dogs. Ignore them, or try a firm, loud, "NO." If you can't get away, dismount with your bike between you and the dog. Don't try to kick the dog. Call Animal Control.

Rule 3: Be Equipped

You'll ride more easily and safely.

1. Keep the bike in good repair. Adjust your bike to fit you, and keep it working properly. Check brakes and tires regularly.

2. Use lights at night or when visibility is poor. The law requires a strong headlight and rear reflector or tail light at night.

3. Dress appropriately. In rain, wear a poncho or a parka made of fabric that "breathes". Generally dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes. Avoid loose clothing. Purchase a "strap" at a local bike store to control your right pantleg to avoid catching it in the chain.

4. Use a pack or rack to carry things. Saddlebags, racks, baskets, and backpacks are all good ways to carry packages, freeing your hands for safe riding.

5. Always wear an ANSI or Snell approved helmet. This reduces the potential for head injury by 85%.

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CHAIN, YOUNGER, COHN & STILES
1430 Truxtun Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301-5220
Tel: 661-323-4000