Bike Safety

Safe Bicycle Driving Rules

  • Bicycles are legal vehicles on the road, and thus are required to obey all traffic laws; always stop at red lights and stop signs.
  • Scan behind and use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • Ride on the right about two feet from the curb or edge of the street leaving enough room to avoid hazards and to be seen by motorists.
  • Wear your helmet, eye protection, and bright reflective clothing.
  • Always take ID, water, cell phone.
  • Have a plan if you get a flat.
  • Call out to pedestrians and other cyclists: “on your left” and pass on left.
  • Don’t use headphones or ear buds when riding.
  • If you ride at night you must have white light on front and red light or reflector on rear.
  • Regularly check your bike for working or worn parts and pieces, clean after use, and store out of the elements.

Video on Essential Bicycling Skills (22 minutes, but covers all the essentials)

Video on Safe Riding in the City (4 minutes, a short but good look at biking driving skills)