JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, each year more than 500,000 people in the U.S. are treated in medical emergency departments for bicycle-related injuries and more than 700 people die as a result of these bicycle-related injuries. Although automobiles should always be on the lookout for bicyclists, it is important for bicyclists to remember the following tips to avoid collisions with automobiles and to remain safe while riding a bicycle:
- Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet and make sure the bicycle is ready to ride by checking equipment
- Avoid busy streets
- Headlights and rear lights are extremely important, especially when riding at night
- Take the whole lane when appropriate
- Signal your turns
- Rethink using portable music players or mobile phones. Stay alert at all times
- Ride with the traffic flow and obey all traffic laws
- Look before turning
- Watch for parked cars
- Never ride on a sidewalk or area that isn't designated for bicycles
- Yield to traffic when appropriate
- Be predictable. Ride in straight line, not in and out of cars. Signal your moves to others
- See and be seen by wearing something bright, even during the day
- Don't ride in an automobile's blind spot
- Ride further left to hold your lane
Remember that bicycle riders on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and are subject to the same rules and regulations.