10
KNOW AND OBSERVE LOCAL BICYCLE RIDING LAWS
Most state and local areas have specific laws for cyclists, and you should follow them. Local
cycling clubs or your state’s Department of Transportation (or equivalent) should be able to
supply this information to you. A few of the more important rules of riding include the following:
Use proper hand signals
Ride single file when riding with other cyclists
Ride on the correct side of the road; never ride against traffic
Ride defensively; expect the unexpected. A cyclist is hard to see, and many drivers simply
are not trained to recognize the rights and special considerations of a bicycle rider
RIDE DEFENSIVELY
To motorists, pedestrians, or other bicyclists, you are not as visible as a car. Always watch for
hazardous situations, and be ready to stop or take evasive action at all times.
Avoid road hazards. Watch for and avoid potholes, drain grates, soft or low shoulders, and
other deviations which could cause your wheels to slip or create an impact.
When crossing railroad tracks or drain grates, do so carefully at a 90° angle. If you are not sure
of the condition of the riding surface, walk your bicycle.
Avoid debris. If your tires contact debris such as sticks, rocks, trash, or any other loose object
on the road, the debris can flip up. If the debris gets into your wheels, it could cause you to lose
control or crash. It could also get caught in your spokes or chain, possibly damaging your
bicycle.
Watch the cars you are preparing to pass. If a car suddenly enters your lane, or someone
unexpectedly opens the door of a parked car, you could be involved in a serious accident.
Mount a horn or bell on your bicycle, and use it to alert others of your approach.
Be careful when riding in low light conditions. Your bicycle is equipped with a full set of
reflectors. Keep them clean and in position. As useful as these reflectors are, they do not help
you see, nor do they help you be seen, unless light is directed on them. Use a
working headlight and tail light when you ride in poorly lighted or low visibility conditions. Also
wear light, bright, and reflective clothing, especially at night, to make yourself more visible.
The important thing is to see and be seen. If you do any amount of riding at dusk, at night, or in
any conditions with poor visibility, find appropriate products to aid your vision and make you
more visible.
WARNING: A bicycle rider without proper lighting and safety precautions may not have
good vision and may not be visible to others, which can cause a collision resulting in
severe injury. Use front and rear bicycle lights and additional safety procedures when
riding in poor visibility conditions. Failure to provide visibility for yourself and be visible to others
will increase your chance of being involved in an accident in low light conditions.