Bike Smart

Driving on the road requires care and courtesy whether you are driving a car or bicycle.  As road users, bicyclists must be predictable and obey all traffic laws by riding in a responsible manner.

Maintain and regularly inspect your equipment.  Be safe and keep your bike tuned up.  Take it to a bike shop at least twice a year for professional inspection.

Wear a helmet correctly.  Always wear your helmet to prevent head injury.  You helmet should be level and snug.  You should be able to see the helmet brim.

Be visible and predictable.  Wear bright colors.  Ride straight in a predictable manner.  Plan ahead to avoid obstacles.  Signal before changing directions.

Ride with traffic.  Always ride on the right side.  Do not pass motorists on the right.  If you approach an intersection with a right turn lane and intend to continue straight, ride with through traffic.  When a road is too narrow for cars and bikes to ride side by side “take the travel lane” which means riding in or near the center.

Watch for potential hazards.  Scan the road 100 feet ahead for hazards – drains, potholes, tracks or debris.  Allow time to maneuver around these hazards and negotiate with traffic.  Avoid riding into open car doors by giving yourself 3 or 4 feet.

Signal all turns.  Look back before you make a lane change or turn.  Signal safely in advance using one of these signals.
                                 

Making left hand turns.  You may turn left, the same as any vehicle, by moving into the left side of the travel lane (or left turn lane). OR  Cross like a pedestrian by stopping, dismounting, and walking across crosswalks.