Q: Any recommendations on how to bike safely?
A: The answer comes right from Indiana Bicycle Coalition, Inc. They say “do not be a hoggasaurus. Think ahead. None of us want to become extinct. Taking just a few extra seconds can help save lives.”
Biking regularly can offer many benefits like improved health, less transportation costs and less environmental pollution. It is wise for all of us to think about how we can use our car less and rely on biking more to meet personal needs. Day-by-day life can be shifted to make biking an easy choice when we ask ourselves: “How will I get there?” Know that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other vehicles.
Tips from Indiana Bicycle Coalition, Inc.:
- Do not hit the road without a helmet.
-Ride with traffic, in the right side of the lane.
-Ride on the right when you’re on a sidewalk.
-Keep biking speed low when traveling on pedestrian sidewalks.
-Pass with care.
-Do not be a litterbug.
-Obey all traffic laws, especially stop at all stop signs and traffic lights.
-Signal all turns and when changing any directions.
-Be prepared for all conditions. Carry supplies and a water bottle.
-Be visible by wearing bright colors and reflectors.
-Be predictable by riding the path of the road or sidewalk.
-Use a horn or bell properly to alert someone that you are behind them.
-If you ride with friends do not hog the road. Two by two is the limit.
-Be courteous to pedestrians. They get to go first. Yield to them.
-Keep a sharp lookout for danger at all times, in all directions.
-Park your bike in a bike rack, not a tree or pole.
-Lock up your parked bike.
-If you bike at night, always have a light and wear reflective gear.
-Wear an ID tag or bracelet.
-Be considerate of others.
