BICYCLE SAFTY TIPS

· OBEY TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS – Bicycles must drive like other vehicles if they are to be taken seriously by motorists.

· NEVER RIDE AGAINST TRAFFIC – Motorists aren’t looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road. State law and common sense require that bicyclists drive like drivers in other vehicles.

· USE HAND SIGNALS – Hand signals tell motorists and pedestrians what you intend to do. Signal as a matter of law, courtesy and self-protection.

· DON’T WEAVE BETWEEN PARKED CARS – Don’t ride out to the curb between parked cars unless they are far apart. Motorists may not see you when you try to move back into traffic.

· RIDE IN MIDDLE OF LANE IN SLOW TRAFFIC – Get in the middle of the lane at busy intersections and whenever you are moving at the same speed as traffic.

· FOLLOW LANE MARKINGS – Don’t turn left from the right lane. Don’t go straight in a lane marked right turn only.

· CHOOSE THE BEST WAY TO TURN LEFT – Either turn like a car by signaling a move into the left turn lane and turning, or turn like a pedestrian by riding straight to the far side crosswalk before walking your bike across.

· DON’T PASS ON THE RIGHT – Motorists may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the right.

· MAKE EYE CONTACT WITH DRIVERS – Assume that other drivers don’t see you until you are sure that they do. Eye contact is important with any driver who might pose a threat to your safety.

· SCAN THE ROAD BEHIND – Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing you balance or swerving. Some riders use rearview mirrors.

· AVOID ROAD HAZARDS – Watch out for sewer grates, gravel, ice and debris. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.

· HAVE BOTH HANDS READY TO BRAKE – You may not stop in time if you brake with just one hand. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain, since brakes are less efficient when wet.

· USE LIGHTS AT NIGHT – The law requires a white headlight (visible from at least 500 feet ahead) and a rear reflector or taillight (visible up to 300 feet from behind).

· DRESS APPROPRIATELY –Wear a sturdy helmet to protect your head. Wear bright clothing. In rain wear a poncho or waterproof clothing. Dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes. Never ride with headphones.

· KEEP BIKE IN GOOD REPAIR – Adjust your bike to fit you and keep it working properly. Check brakes and tires regularly. Routine maintenance is simple and you can learn to do it yourself.

Source: “Revised Bicycle Trails of Illinois – 3^rd edition”