Tips for Cyclists Sharing the Road

People on bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as people in cars. Bicycle riders should follow these tips to reduce the risk of a crash.
Equipment – ride a well-maintained, properly sized bike that fits you.
Clothing –wear bright clothing during the day and reflective equipment at night. Make sure to secure loose laces and pant legs to prevent them from catching in the gears.
Route – choose routes with less traffic & slower speeds. Choose bike paths & lanes where available.
Follow Rules – Ride in the same direction as traffic and obey street signs, signals, and road markings.
Ride Defensively – assume the other person does NOT see you. Look ahead for hazards or situations to avoid that may cause a fall.
Ride Predictably – motorists get a sense of what you intend to do and can react to avoid a crash.
Signal – this will communicate your intent to others. Always use your left arm to signal turns – you can signal a right-hand turn by holding your arm at a 90 degree angle with your fingertips pointing up.
Avoid sidewalks – motorists don’t expect traffic on sidewalks and don’t look there when backing up or turning.
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Safely riding your bike in traffic requires preparation, practice, and experience. Confidence in traffic comes with learning how to navigate and communicate with other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.