| It's simple! Follow the "rules of the road". With few | | | | Commission) sticker. Make sure your helmet fits |
| exceptions, when operating a bicycle on the streets | | | | securely and is level on your head. The straps should |
| and highways you must comply with the motor vehicle | | | | be fastened snugly. Worn improperly, your helmet will |
| traffic regulations of your state and locality. Yes, you | | | | not protect you as it is designed to do. And how old is |
| have all the rights of a motor vehicle driver, but you | | | | your helmet anyway? You may need to replace it if |
| also have the same responsibilities they do. That | | | | it's more than 20 years old or if it lacks the CPSC (or |
| means you must drive on the right side of a two way | | | | ASTM or Snell) label. If the helmet foam is cracked, if |
| street, except when overtaking or passing. You must | | | | the helmet doesn't fit correctly or if the helmet has |
| obey traffic lights and signs. At uncontrolled | | | | been banged up in a crash, replace it. |
| intersections, remember the vehicle on the left yields | | | | Visibility is key! If a motor vehicle driver can't see you, |
| the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. | | | | he won't take steps to avoid hitting you. Wear light |
| Where bike paths or lanes are available, use them. | | | | colored clothing that stands out such as yellow or |
| When traveling with a group, it is best to ride single file | | | | white. Tie a reflector strap around your pant leg or |
| and never more than two abreast. | | | | wear a jacket or shoes furnished with reflector tape. |
| Signals are important. Turning right? Extend your right | | | | Attach a lamp to the front of your bicycle for use at |
| hand and arm in a horizontal position straight from and | | | | night, during twilight hours, or in bad weather. A tail light |
| level with your shoulder beyond the right side of your | | | | is a good idea as well. |
| bicycle. Turning left? Extend your left arm straight and | | | | Check your equipment before you ride! Are your |
| level to the left side of your bike. For slowing down or | | | | brakes in good repair and are they correctly adjusted? |
| stopping, extend your arm downward to your side. By | | | | You don't want to ride a bike with worn brake pads or |
| following the regulations applicable to motor vehicles | | | | faulty cables. Are your tires properly inflated and in |
| (which the law requires you to do, like it or not), you | | | | good condition? It is always a good idea to oil your |
| make it less likely a motor vehicle driver will | | | | chain regularly and ensure it is in good working order. |
| misunderstand what you are doing and where you are | | | | Make certain your bicycle seat, handlebars, and wheels |
| going. Such misunderstandings cause accidents. | | | | aren't loose, that they fit tightly. |
| Wear a helmet! Because head injuries are ordinarily | | | | These are just a few tips for safer cycling. Use your |
| the most serious type of injury in bicycle accidents, | | | | common sense and always remain alert to your |
| always wear a helmet when cycling. Your helmet | | | | surroundings and nearby vehicles. Bicycling is great |
| should meet U.S. government safety standards. Check | | | | exercise and a wonderful hobby. Just make sure you |
| for the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety | | | | remember the safety rules while you enjoy the ride. |