Five Steps to Riding Better
1. 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 that 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. 2. 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. Wear reflective tape or clothing. 3. Be Predictable • Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars. • Make eye contact with motorists to let them know you are there. • Do not ride on the sidewalk. 4. Anticipate Conflicts • 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. 5. 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. |
Rules of the Road
The League's six Rules of the Road will prepare you for a safe and fun bike commute no matter where you are riding. 1. Follow the law. Your safety and the image of bicyclists depend on you. You have the same rights and duties as drivers. Obey traffic signals and stop signs. Ride with traffic; use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going. 2. Be predictable. Make your intentions clear to motorists and other road users. Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars. Signal turns, and check behind you well before turning or changing lanes. 3. Be conspicuous. Ride where drivers can see you; wear bright clothing. Use a front white light and red rear light and reflectors at night or when visibility is poor. Make eye contact with drivers. Don’t ride on sidewalks. 4. Think ahead. Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians, and other bicyclists will do next. 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. 5. Ride Ready. Check 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. Wear a helmet. 6. Keep your cool. Road rage benefits no-one and always makes a bad situation worse. |
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