Fall is a wonderful time of year to be outdoors. The air is warm, but not too warm; the humidity is low, when it’s not raining; and the kids still want to be outside, or maybe that’s just their way of putting off homework. Either way, one thing we try to do until the weather completely lacks cooperation, is ride bikes.
Whether it’s a leisure ride around the neighborhood, a jaunt up the hill to the Little Free Library, or the trek to school, practicing bike safety is a must. If you’re a little rusty on safety rules or have an up-and-coming new rider, check out the list below for bike safety tips.
Always wear a helmet
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourages all cyclists, especially children, to wear helmets. From scooters to training wheels, tag-alongs to tandem riding, newly independent riders to seasoned older siblings, helmets are essential. Properly and consistently wearing a helmet can reduce head-injury chances by 85 percent. Take the time to ensure a proper fit. The helmet should sit securely on the head without sliding or pinching. It should cover the forehead with no more than the width of two fingers above the eyebrow exposed. Tighten straps below the earlobe in a V-shape and secure the clip under the chin. The chin strap should be snug, allowing no more than the width of two fingers between the chin and strap. That goes for you, too, Mama. Your safety is just as important. Set the standard and wear a helmet.
Ride with traffic
Cyclists should ride on the right side of the road, going the same direction as other vehicles. Use a biking lane if one is provided. Obey street signs and signals. All states require, by law, bicyclists on the roadway to adhere to the same rules and regulations as motorists. It is not encouraged for children under the age of 10 to ride on roadways unsupervised.
Be alert
Watch for cars backing out of driveways especially if riding on the sidewalk with young children. Stop at corners and streets. Look both ways and behind before crossing. If crossing a busy street, it is safest for children to walk their bike across at an intersection or crosswalk.
Be predictable
Ride in a straight line with at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. When riding on a sidewalk, yield to pedestrians. When passing a pedestrian, pass on the left and announce your presence by saying, “on your left” or “passing on your left.”
Wear visible clothing
Wearing bright or reflective clothing makes it easier for motorists to see you, especially if it’s early morning or dusk. If you’re riding at night, make sure you have front and rear reflectors on your bike. Some states (Nebraska included) require white lights on the front when night riding.
Ride the appropriate size bike
Standing over your bicycle, there should be a clearance of one to two inches between the top bar and the rider, three to four inches for a mountain bike. When riding, the knee should have a slight bend when fully extended. Ensure tires are filled and brakes are functioning. Avoid loose or untied shoe strings. Dangling shoe laces can get caught in a bike chain and result in a tumble.
Use proper signaling
If turning left, extend left hand out straight to the side. If turning right, extend left arm out to the left, bending the elbow at a 90-degree angle so the hand is pointing up. Alternatively, one can also signal a right turn by extending the right hand out straight to the right side.
Drivers, share the road
Be courteous of bicyclists young and old. Give cyclists extra room, do not pass too closely, and always look again.
Do your little ones enjoy biking? If so, share your favorite bike-friendly paths and locations.
