Wednesday, March 25, 2009
As the weather warms up, many of us are anxious to take the cycling paths. There are many risks to cycling, especially in urban areas, however. Contributing factors to bicycling accidents include streetcar and railway tracks, weather hazards and dangerous road surfaces.
Consider the following safety tips:
- Go over loose or slippery surfaces slowly. Turn corners carefully, keeping your bicycle as upright as possible
- Watch for cars approaching from the opposite direction that may turn left in front of you. Motorists often do no look out for cyclists.
- Avoid putting yourself in a position where cards can cut you off. Stay on the right edge of the traffic flow, but keep safely away from the curb.
- Establish eye contact with motorists at intersections. Be especially careful with drivers on the right, who may pull out in front of you.
- Your clothing should not flap in the wind as you ride. Secure your pant legs by using bicycle clips or tucking them into your socks so they do not catch in the chain.
- Bright, reflective clothing is best for riding both at night and during the day. A white or yellow helmet with reflective material on it is also highly visible.