Safety Rules for Cyclists
NHTSA is dedicated to promoting safe behavior for motorists and cyclists through education and law enforcement. We offer bike safety tips, educational materials and other resources. We also conduct public awareness campaigns, such as National Bike Month, to encourage motorists to share the road with cyclists. As part of the campaign, be sure to read safety tips and watch a series of videos to learn more about traffic rules and ways to improve your cycling skills. One of the best ways to stay safe is to behave predictably. Following traffic and signage rules helps cars, pedestrians and other cyclists understand what to expect from you and where you`re going. Drive in the direction of travel. Stay away from sidewalks in business districts. Stop for all red lights and stop signs. If there are traffic lights, wait for the green light. The walk signal indicates that it is safe for pedestrians to cross the intersection. This signal is not for cyclists.
Wait for the green light before crossing the intersection. Failure to follow traffic rules creates dangerous situations for you and others. Your safety and image as a cyclist depends on you. They have the same rights and obligations as drivers. Follow traffic lights and stop signs. Travel by traffic; Use the far right lane in the direction you are driving. Not all states require cyclists to wear helmets. However, research shows that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of serious injury by 70%.
Head injuries are the leading cause of fatal bicycle accidents. Unfortunately, 97% of victims do not wear helmets. Simply wearing a helmet can prevent many accidental deaths while cycling. There are two main types of accidents: the most common (falls) and the most serious (those involving cars). Whatever the reason for the accident, prevention is the panacea. There are things you can do to reduce the risk of an accident. First, know some of the latest facts about bike safety: As you might expect, in an accident between a vehicle and a bike, it`s the cyclist who is most likely to be injured. In this section, you`ll learn tips and rules about bike safety, from installing your helmet correctly to driving defensively and predictably. Find out what you can do to prevent cycling injuries and deaths, and remember: a large percentage of accidents can be avoided if motorists and cyclists follow traffic rules and pay attention to each other.
Many bicycle accidents occur at or near an intersection. It is important to familiarize yourself with manual bicycle signals. You must be able to communicate with motorists and other cyclists nearby. A driver can`t predict what you`re going to do unless you give a fair warning. Make sure your hand signals are obvious and clear to others. Accidents are less likely if everyone on the road is on the same side. 7. Drive with a friend. Two cyclists will be more visible than one. If something happens to you, your friend may be able to facilitate the emergency process (and vice versa). Take a bike class through your school, recreation department, local bike shop or bike group.
Confidence in traffic comes with learning to navigate and communicate with other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Checking and practicing as a pedestrian or cyclist safely is a good preparation for safe driving. 13. Know the bike safety rules for your condition. Check out this list compiled by the League of American Bicyclists. Americans are increasingly cycling to work, exercise, or just for fun. According to the law, bicycles on the road are vehicles with the same rights and obligations as motor vehicles. NHTSA`s bike safety initiatives focus on promoting safer choices for cyclists and cyclists to reduce fatalities and injuries on our roads. The “right hook” can be particularly dangerous. Cyclists can be seriously injured if large vehicles turn and cyclists do not see. Be very careful at intersections and avoid being to the right of large vehicles. 31.
Use bike paths. You can avoid some of the most dangerous threats to cycling safety by using recreational trails specifically designed for cyclists. Bicycles are considered vehicles and must comply with all traffic rules. Boston loves cyclists, so we want to make sure you`re ready for anything. Learn how to avoid common urban hazards.