Safety Tips For Bikers

Protect Your Head

It sounds obvious, but a *properly fitted helmet* is your most important piece of gear. It should sit level on your head (not tilted back) and low on your forehead—about one or two finger-widths above your eyebrows. If you ever have a hard fall and the helmet hits the ground, replace it immediately, even if it looks fine; the internal structure might be compromised.

Be Visible (Day and Night)

Don’t assume drivers or pedestrians see you.

During the day: Wear bright or neon colors.

At night: Use a white front light, a red rear light, and plenty of reflectors.

Positioning: Ride where people can see you—avoid hovering in a vehicle’s blind spot.

Sleep Disruptions: Often caused by night sweats or shifting cortisol levels.

Use Hand Signals

Think of hand signals as your “blinkers.” Communicating your intentions helps prevent accidents.

Left turn: Extend your left arm straight out.

Right turn: Extend your right arm straight out (or bend your left arm up at a 90° angle).

Stopping: Bend your left arm down at a 90° angle with your palm open.

Follow the Rules of the Road

Bicycles are technically vehicles when they are on the road. This means you should:

Ride in the same direction as traffic, never against it.

Obey all stop signs and traffic lights.

Yield to pedestrians—they always have the right of way.

Perform an “ABC Quick Check”

Before you head out, spend 30 seconds checking your bike to avoid mechanical failures:

A is for Air: Squeeze the tires to make sure they are firm.

B is for Brakes: Ensure the levers don’t touch the handlebars when squeezed.

C is for Chain: Make sure it’s clean and not skipping or rusted.

* *Quick:* Check the “quick release” levers on your wheels to ensure they are tight.