Go on-line or to the DMV office and get a copy of your state's Driver's Manual. Read and pay close attention to sections pertaining to bicycle riders. Before jumping onto your bicycle and riding down the road, check the tire pressure, check your chain, check your brakes, and strap your helmet into place on your head.
Safety Equipment: Head lights and taillights are critical for your safety and others who are sharing the roadways with you. Wheel spoke reflectors, neon pant leg ties and pedal reflectors are extremely important safety features for you. Reflective vests really enhance the visibility of bicycle riders, both day and night. Side mirrors can be added to the handle bars, or to the riders' helmet. These items increase the rear vision of the bicycle rider. "Bell-shaped" or "Full Face Helmets," similar to motorcycle helmets provide crucial protection for your head and neck.
In order to communicate your intentions to other drivers, you need to use proper hand signals one hundred feet before turning the corner. If you fail to make it known to other drivers, in advance of your intentions, failing to make your intentions known surprises other drivers. Turning without warning could cause a serious accident. Pedestrians and bicycle riders need to cross the street inside the cross walk, when their light permits.
I recently was driving my car when a nineteen year old man ran a red light, crossed four lanes of on-coming traffic. I did not see the rider until he was in front of the car to my right. I swerved to my left to miss him, but unfortunately my right front bumper hit his rear tire. Thank you, Dear Lord and Savior for sparing this young man's life. I am grateful beyond words to report that this young man's "bell-shaped" bicycle helmet saved his life. But, if he had been wearing a "full face" helmet, he would not have had to have stitches in his chin.
Self Defense Weapons: Warning, women need to carry self defense weapons while riding bicycles in areas not well lit after dark, or when riding on paths where others are not around. If you ride in secluded areas, don't ride alone. Either carry pepper spray, stun gun, or a personal alarm for self defense.
Safety Awareness: The Traffic Division in my home town has partnered with the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA) in an effort to increase bicycle riding awareness.
Every day I see at least one bicycle rider violating the traffic laws by running a stop light, stop sign, riding on the wrong side of the street or on the sidewalk. People who ride without a bicycle helmet, headlights, or taillights while riding a night, are common occurrences. Future accidents await people who practice unwise riding behavior. All riders must see themselves as vehicle drivers subject to the same laws as motorized drivers.
Conclusion: Remember, what happens to you affects many others as well.
Written by: Penny Deane Montague Outfitting your bicycle with the proper safety equipment such as: Headlights and Taillights Bicycle Headlights and bicycle helmets are intended to reduce serious head injuries. Self defense weapons are necessary for self protection. We have a large selection of pepper sprays from which to choose from. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Montague |
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