Bicycling Safety Tips

Whether you ride for exercise, transportation, competition, or recreation, bicycling can be fun – and it’s also good for you (and the environment). But, it can also be dangerous, especially when you share the road with motorized traffic. Even if you are an experienced cyclist, it’s a good idea to periodically review the fundamentals of bicycling safety so they stay fresh in your mind.

In order to stay safe on your bike, you should observe the following basic but important cycling requirements:

• Follow the rules of the road. As a bicyclist, you have the same duties and rights as drivers. This means that you must ride along with the flow of traffic, using the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are traveling. You must also obey all stop signs and traffic signals. Give pedestrians the right of way, and do not ride on sidewalks.
• Be predictable. Always ride single-file in a straight line, with adequate space between bicycles, and make your intentions clear to everyone around you. Signal before turning, and check behind you before executing a turn or changing lanes.
• Be conspicuous.  Wear brightly colored clothing and equip your bike with a white front light, a red rear light, and appropriate reflectors. Make eye contact with drivers, other cyclists, and pedestrians, and wave if you need to get their attention.
• Be proactive. Anticipate the actions of others, and be vigilant for turning vehicles and opening car doors. Watch out for road hazards like gravel, sewer grates, manhole covers, railroad tracks, and potholes.
• Maintain your bike. Before riding your bicycle, confirm that the tires are properly inflated, the brakes work, the chain is lubricated, and any quick-release levers are closed.
• Wear a helmet. Always. Make sure it fits well and is properly fastened.

For further information on bicycling safety and other health- and wellness-related topics, please feel free to contact or visit the South Tampa Immediate Care walk-in clinic.