The brisk fall weather has forced many of us to stow our bikes away, but for some, bicycling is a year-round activity. Whether you’re one of the lucky, warm-weather folks, or one burdened by Mother Nature’s seasons, it is just as important to follow safety precautions while on two wheels. Here are some simple things to do to make sure you’re safe while riding a bicycle:

Check the vitals

Before going out on a ride, make sure that your bike is up to snuff mechanically.  Check your tire pressure, check your gears, and make sure your brakes work.

See and Be Seen

When you’re behind the wheel you want other cars to be aware of your presence. The same goes when you’re riding a bicycle.  In addition to the reflectors on bikes, cyclists should consider other options to making their bike as visible as possible.

Get a headlight

Headlights are great while riding at night or on foggy days.  Reliable, good quality headlights typically range in price from $10-$30. A small price to pay for improved visibility.

Use hand gestures

Hand gestures are a great way to communicate with drivers and other bicyclists. Signal before all turns to ensure others are aware of your intentions.

Wear something bright

Neon clothing, reflective leg bands, or a vest are great options to help you stand out to drivers on the dull colored roads.

Go with the flow

People new to the cycling world might ride down the road going against traffic. Wrong! It is actually much safer for bicyclists to ride the same direction as the vehicular traffic.

Reduce speed

When in areas that have hidden driveways, blind curves, or general congestion, don’t assume that it is safe to speed by. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe, reasonable speed.

Follow the law

Sure, a bicycle is not a car, but that does not mean that the laws of the road do not apply to you as well!  On the road, bicycles are considered vehicles too.  While it may be hard to break any land-speed record, going through a stop sign or a red light on a bike is just as illegal as doing so on a car.

Know when to pass

If a car is driving slowly, do not try to pass them on their right.  They may be about to make a right turn into a parking lot or right turn lane.  An unfortunately timed pass could result in you getting hit.

Get a mirror to increase mobility

If there is a branch or pedestrian blocking you on the road, you may want to move to the left of the lane in order to swerve around it.  Doing this without a mirror can be difficult.  With a mirror, you don’t have to turn your head and can see if it’s safe to move over to the left.

 

Millions of Americans are devoted cyclists and many cyclists share the road with vehicles.  This can be concerning to the average driver since bike-car accidents are all too common.  Now is the time to look into purchasing an affordable, minimum coverage auto insurance plan from an insurer like Good2Go.  This way, you will know you are driving within the law and are protected from any potential damages the road may throw your way.  Click here to get a free quote from Good2Go Auto Insurance.