How to Stay Safe During Ride to Work Week
Bicycling to work is a great way to get exercise, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint. Follow these bike safety tips to ensure that you stay safe during Ride to Work Week and throughout the year:
Wear a Bicycle Helmet
Bicycle helmets can reduce the chances that you’ll suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during a bike accident. This is true whether you’re an adult who’s biking to work or a child who’s riding around the neighborhood. Although there isn’t a state law in Arizona that mandates the wearing of helmets, several communities require bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear them. They not only increase bike safety for kids, but also offer vital protection for bicyclists of any age.
Obey the Rules of the Road
Arizona law gives bicyclists the same rights and responsibilities that motorists have. Make sure to ride on the right side of the road, with the flow of traffic. Don’t weave in and out of traffic. Follow lane markings, and don’t turn left from the right-hand lane or go straight in a lane that’s marked for right turns only.
Keep a Good Distance Away From Parked Cars
Ride a minimum of three to five feet away from parked cars. This helps make you more visible to drivers and helps protect you in case the driver of a parked car opens his or her door suddenly.