10 Smart Rules for Bicycle Safety
Protect Your Head
Wear a helmet.
Stay Visible
If drivers can see you, they are less likely to hit you. Use lights when biking at night or in low-light conditions.
Look, Signal & Look Again
Use hand signals to let drivers and other bicyclists know where you’re going. Look and make eye contact. Don’t assume drivers will stop.
Stay Alert
Keep a lookout for obstacles in your path.
Go with the Flow
Bike in the direction of traffic.
Act like a Car
Drivers are used to the patterns of other drivers. Don’t weave in and out of traffic. The more predictably you ride, the safer you are. Check for traffic. Be aware of traffic around you.
Don’t Get Distracted
Don’t listen to music or talk on the phone while riding.
Obey all Traffic Laws & Lights
Traffic laws and controls (lights and signing) are there to protect all roadway users.
Assure Bicycle Readiness
Is your bicycle properly adjusted? Is your saddle in a comfortable position?
Do a Quick Bicycle Test
Check your brakes and your wheels. Make sure that “quick release” wheels are properly secured.
What is a Bike Box?
Bike boxes are rectangles, painted on the pavement at intersections, which move car traffic back several feet from the crossing and allow space for bicyclists to position themselves in front of waiting traffic. Bike boxes are intended to reduce bicycle and car collisions, especially those between drivers turning right and bicyclists going straight by providing greater visibility.
Bike Box Brochure