May is National Bike Month and the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants to remind bicyclists and motorists alike to share responsibility for roadway safety. This includes respecting each other's rights and obeying traffic laws when on streets or roads.
NHTSA statistics show that in 2015, 5,376 pedestrians and 818 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles. With May being National Bike Month, it is a good time to review bike safety tips!
NHTSA offers bicyclists the following "safety first" tips:
- Wear a properly-fitted helmet that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
- Check your bike before heading out: check all equipment and parts for proper fit and function, including tires, brakes, handlebars and seats.
- Ride as a vehicle on the road; always travel in the same direction as traffic.
- Obey traffic signs, signals and lane markings; signal all turns; and follow local laws.
- Be predictable by riding in a straight line and use hand signals at every lane change or turn. Look ahead for traffic and obstacles.
- Be visible: wear bright colors, reflective materials and lights on your bicycle at night.
- Ride focused and alert: don't use electronic devices, and never ride impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Drivers of motor vehicles must share the road with bicyclists:
- Respect designated bicycle lanes.
- Allow at least three feet clearance when passing a bicyclist on the road.
- Look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space.
- Yield to cyclists at intersections and as directed by signs and signals.
- Look for cyclists when making turns, either left or right.
- Never drive distracted or impaired. Always buckle up.
Find more information on bicycle safety at nhtsa.gov.
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