Bicycles can be an easier and more sustainable way to travel, with an upward trend in bicycle share programs for more inexperienced cyclists. It is important to stay safe while riding, especially since most bicycle deaths occur in urban areas and non-intersection locations. This is the ultimate adventure! However, this also requires some preparation and planning. “By taking precautions and riding before riding, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death while riding.”
Bicycle safety is simple with little preparation and attention to potential pitfalls.

Always wear a helmet

States have many laws regarding the wearing of helmets for cyclists, but for safety, it is recommended that everyone wear a helmet while riding. Cyclists must check to ensure that the helmet is ANSI- or SNELL-approved by the federal government.

Wear clothes that are bright and shiny

What matters is the cyclist. Wear clothes that are bright and fit. Clothes that are easily seen enable cars to see cyclists. This is especially important at dusk, dawn and at night. A cyclist’s clothing should have reflectors on it or be bright in color. Avoid loose clothing that can get stuck in a bicycle. Long pants and long sleeves can protect against scrap but must fit tightly. In hot weather, consider wearing knee and elbow pads. “Avoid dark clothing while cycling,” Schwebel said. “Darker colors make it difficult for drivers of cars to see a cyclist. If possible, I recommend not riding a bicycle after dark when it is difficult for motorists to see cyclists. ”

Perform a strict pre-ride checklist

Assess your bicycle and its road-readiness. To ensure that your bicycle goes through a checklist for proper size and maintenance. “There could be a danger if the bicycle falls at the wrong time,” Schwebel said. “Having a quick pre-ride checklist to ensure that your bicycle is safe can reduce the risk of injury.”

• It is the right size – a very large can be hard to control.
• Adjust the seat to fit.
• The tires are properly inflated.
• Install reflectors at the front and back of the bicycle.
• All parts are working properly.
• If necessary, hold the chains.

Know the rules of the road.

Cyclists should know the rules of the road and follow them to ensure the safety of all. “Cyclists are considered vehicles while riding in the road,” Wilkins said. “It is important to learn and follow the rules as a motorist and as a cyclist to help protect someone traveling.”

Rules to keep in mind include:

• Never ride against the flow of traffic.
• Follow all traffic laws, signs, and signals.
• Pedestrians always have the right if riding on the pavement.
• Use hand signals.
• Look both ways before crossing the road.
• “If drivers know where you are going, they will be able to respond and avoid you, just as they would avoid other vehicles,” Using hand signals allows others to know what intentions Are being communicated with. Like a motorcar, you will tell others what you are doing and where you are going. To know the most important hand signals include left or right turns. With the left hand out, signal the left turn. To indicate a right turn, extend the left arm outward from the body and point upwards at a right angle.
• For those of you who are going on a long cycle journey, mobile holders, bottle holders, bicycle repair tool kits, navigation systems, spare brake wires, and lubricant oil are some of the accessories that you should take with you. In particular, a bicycle tool kit is the most important accessory for easy repair, as it can save you a lot of time and money while cycling.
• And do not panic when your tire suddenly punctures. Carry a spare tube, hand pump, lever, and patch kit with you to repair puncture immediately. Also, carry a bicycle lock, so that the possibility of theft can be ruled out if the bicycle has to be left in the open.