There’s a lot of truth to the saying, “it’s like riding a bike.” Unfortunately, that kind of recall doesn’t apply to remembering how to ride safely.
Because bicycle-related deaths peak in the warmer months, now is the time to make sure your bike is working properly, brush up on safety tips, and refamiliarize yourself with the rules of the road.
Here’s where to start:
Check Your Bike and Equipment
Always inspect your bike before riding.
The seat should be adjusted to the proper height and locked in place (for tips on fitting a bike, click here)
Make certain all parts, including brakes and steering, are secure and working properly
Check that the tires are inflated properly
Make sure the bike is equipped with reflectors on the rear, front, pedals and spokes
A horn or bell, a rear-view mirror and a bright headlight also are recommended
The Risk of Riding at Night
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most bicycle accidents occur between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and they occur more in urban areas versus rural ones.
Plan to Be Seen
Make no mistake about it, being visible when riding a bike is as important as knowing how to ride one. In fact, in 2023, lack of visibility was the second leading factor in fatal bike crashes. To be sure drivers can see you:
Wear neon, fluorescent or other bright clothing
Whenever possible, ride during the day
If you ride at night, wear reflective clothing and use flashing/strobing lights
Wear a Bike Helmet
Helmets appropriate for bicycling should be worn by adults and children on every bike ride regardless of length of the ride.
For a list of helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, click here.
Follow these guidelines from NHTSA to properly fit the helmet:
Adjust sizing pads or fit ring until the helmet is snug
Position the helmet level on your head, covering the forehead and not tipped backward or forward; this will be about one to two finger widths above the eyebrow
Adjust the side straps so they form a “V” shape under and slightly in front of your ears
Center the buckle on the chin strap under your chin
Buckle and tighten the chin strap until it is snug; no more than one to two fingers should be able to fit between the chin and strap
When fitted, the helmet should not rock more than 1 inch side to side or front to back on your head
For a video on how to properly fit a bike helmet, click here.
Follow the Rules of the Road
Failing to yield the right of way is the highest factor in fatal bike crashes. Many states—including Vermont—consider a bicycle a vehicle when it’s operated on the road—and bicyclists must follow the same rules. These include:
Stop fully at all lights and stop signs
Ride single-file in the direction of traffic
Remain alert, keep your head up and look around; watch for opening car doors and other hazards
Use hand signals when turning and use extra care at intersections
Never hitch onto cars
Before entering traffic, stop and look left, right, left again, and over your shoulder
Follow local regulations on Ebikes—motorized bicycles carry more significant risk, so safety equipment is even more critical, as is regular maintenance
Sean Burns, MD, is the SVMC EMS Medical Director/District 12 Medical Advisor.