After the pandemic appeared, there’s a boom in outdoor recreation, and cycling is one of the top sports. Everyone going to bike shops or trying to get new bikes knows they’re lucky if they find one that fits their needs on the spot. Many have to wait long months before they can get their hands on a new bike. The growth of the sport or to have more people leaving their couch is exciting news. More people get to enjoy the outdoors. However, some people don’t take the time to learn more about cycling safety until it’s too late. Many think that getting a bike and knowing how to ride it is all they need. Well, that’s not all, especially when we’re getting mix with traffic. Some people don’t realize that hitting the road on a bike means that they share the same rights and responsibilities as every other motorist out there. Yes, this means that you need to care about pedestrians, traffic lights, stops, yields, lanes, and everything on the road too. It’s crucial to know bike about bike law in your region and know all the things you can and cannot do. So, if you get involved in an incident, you know what to expect.
Helmets
You got a bike, and you may think you look silly with a helmet, or you don’t like them, or they make you uncomfortable, or the law says you don’t need them. You’re free to feel the way you want about helmets. But, you must be aware that if you’re mixing with traffic, drivers get distracted easily by almost everything and, your life could be in danger. So, helmets do matter; they can protect your face, eyes, and, most importantly, your brain. Then, you might want to consider getting a certified DOT helmet on for your next ride if you don’t have one. Wearing a helmet without securing the straps is like not wearing a helmet at all. It should not be too tight, nor too loose. To learn more, check out this video about fitting a bike helmet. If you get involved in a fall or an accident, and your helmet was damaged, it might not protect you again, so you will probably, need to get a new one.
Bike Gear
When road cycling, your bike and you must be in optimal conditions. Which, means that your bike must be safe to ride, and all your senses should be lucid. If you’re new to bike riding, please, improve your skills before mixing with traffic. Too many accidents happen due to distractions and insecurity when driving or riding. The most common accidents among cyclists include falls or cars. And, having bike malfunctions on the road depends on the type of cyclist you are. Hence, you and your bike should be ready for the road. At least check the bike tires and chain to make sure it’s safe to ride. When dark, foggy, rainy, or cloudy, have working lights turned on to stay visible to others on the road. Use appropriate and reflective clothing for cycling no matter the time. You want to be comfortable but make sure other people can see you from far away. Make it a habit to check the weather ahead of time, and prepare for it. Carry essentials on your bike ride. For instance, a portable pump, a cycling tool kit, a phone charger, a wind jacket, and a GPS if you need it. All of these are simple things to make cycling safe and manageable; get used to them.
Bike Lanes
If you’re lucky to have these, use them. Many should be aware that, in the U.S., you should never ride against traffic. You ride in the same direction as traffic. Most bike lanes have arrows to show you the way; follow them. If you’re passing another cyclist in a bike lane or anywhere else, speak up to let them know: “I’m on your left.” or, “I’m on your right.” Don’t startle them; they could crash and make you or others crash. Also, some bike lanes have speed limits you should respect. Believe it or not, cyclists can get traffic tickets too. Bikes lanes were designed for bikes only. Pedestrians should not be using bike lanes to walk, run, skate, or jog. Only authorized vehicles can stop or park in a bike lane; otherwise, it’s illegal. Do your research to learn more.
Traffic lights, Stops, Yields, Pedestrians, Drivers
Your bike is considered a vehicle in most states. And in all states, cyclists share the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when on the road. You should obey traffic laws, signs, and road markings as if you were driving a car. Therefore, stop when on a red light, yield to pedestrians crossing, and use bike routes. In some places, when you come to a crossing, you might need to walk your bike, not ride it across. You also need to yield to pedestrians and assume that you shouldn’t ride your bicycle on the sidewalk.
Sharing the Road and Motorists
The share the road sign tends to be misunderstood by many motorists. Unfortunately, many feel entitled to use a whole lane simply because they’re driving a motor vehicle. And, many cyclists fear to practice their rights because some drivers tend to rush, honk, and threaten them with their motor vehicles and try to avoid incidents. But, when this sign is on the road, cyclists have as much right as motorists to use a whole lane in whatever direction they’re going.
If there aren’t any share the road signs or bike lanes, follow bike routes. Just make sure that you’re using proper gear on the road; this means that, at least, you should be wearing reflective clothing and a helmet, and your bike has lights on; and, you’re riding safely. Also, be aware that in most states, the law requires motorists to leave a distance of at least three feet (3′) when passing a cyclist. Some states have different regulations about safe space for drivers when passing cyclists on the road. More cyclists need to be aware of these tips and spread awareness. We all have places to go and people waiting for us.
Hand Signals
I mentioned earlier that indecision causes accidents, probably too many; this is why using your hands to communicate with others is crucial when road cycling. Drivers should know how to do and read hand signals, that they are more comfortable using technology or prefer not to, is different. Road cyclists have their sign language to communicate with other cyclists when group cycling. If you’re interested in learning more about this, take a look at the Road Cycling Language.
More Tips for the Road
To have a safe ride, you must be alert, focused, and predictable. Again, all your senses must be sharp; you need to be able to see, hear, communicate, think, and react to everything around you. Don’t use a bike that’s too big, too small, or doesn’t have brakes. Keep control of your handlebar. Avoid distractions, make yourself visible to others, and wear protective equipment like gloves, cycling glasses, and a helmet. If you don’t wear cycling shoes, try not to use shoelaces; if so, tuck them in. Don’t try using cycling shoes for the first time on a road with traffic. It’s best that you practice on a spin bike or away from people and other vehicles. If you don’t have enough skills to stop and ride the bike with cycling shoes on, you could fall or cause an accident. Be mindful, plan your route, take precautions, stay hydrated, bring snacks, and stay safe. Don’t ride too close to parked vehicles; sometimes, cyclists can’t notice people inside them and get slammed by a door. Most bike accidents happen during the day. The top two causes of injury for cyclists are getting hit by a car and falling off the bike. Cyclists need to pay special attention to the day and time for riding. In the early morning, late afternoon, holidays, and long weekends traffic tend to be heavier. Be careful with drunk, sleepy, and distracted drivers. Deaths of cyclists happen in urban areas as much as in rural areas. The majority of cyclists’ deaths are men. Most deaths occur between 6 and 9 pm. The best way to avoid accidents is to anticipate what others may do; so, you must ride safely and attentively.
I hope that you find this information beneficial and share it with others to spread awareness.
Before you go, take a look at these:
2021 Arrivals! Shop Women’s Darn Tough Socks
The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn, is a choice.
Brian Herbert
ssweetcycling.sport.blog 