Ensure You’re Cycling Safely

In order to ensure you are as safe as possible, consider the following:

• Follow the laws of the road - If you are riding a bike on the road, then you need to adhere to road laws for cyclists. Do not run red lights or stop signs, do not ride on crosswalks, and do not ride back and forth between the road and sidewalk.
• Don't ride against traffic - Not only is riding against traffic illegal, it is also extremely dangerous. If a car strikes you as you are driving toward it, your speeds are combined, increasing your risk of sustaining serious injuries.
• Don't hug the curb - When practical, do not hug the curb. By riding away from the curb, you not only give yourself more room to avoid hazards, but you also make yourself more visible to other drivers.
• Don't sit in blind spots - When waiting at an intersection, do not stop between a car and the curb, as this places you in their blind spot. Stop slightly in front of or slightly behind the vehicle. Also, be sure you do not attempt to pass them until they are through the intersection, as they may not see you and may hit you if they are making a right-hand turn.
• Slow down - If you are approaching an intersection, even if you have the right of way, slow down. Ensure the other drivers see you before entering the intersection. It may be inconvenient, but slowing down will ensure you have enough time to react if a vehicle makes a sudden movement.
• Use hand signals - In addition to anticipating the intentions of other vehicles on the road, make your intentions known by using hand signals.
• Ride as if you are invisible - Not all vehicles notice cyclists or realize that they must share the road with bicycles. Riding as if you are invisible ensures you will stay out of the roadway as much as possible so that cars, who may not notice you, will not hit you.
• Get a headlight and taillight - In Georgia, every bicycle that is in use at nighttime must be equipped with a white light on the front that is visible from a distance of 300 feet. A red reflector that is visible from 300 feet is also required to be present on the rear of the bicycle. In addition to the red reflector, a red light may also be used.
• Get a mirror - If you do not have a mirror on your bicycle or helmet, get one. Check it often and anticipate the moves of other drivers.
• Make yourself visible - Whether riding during the day or at night, make yourself as visible as possible. Wear bright clothing or a reflective vest to increase your visibility to other drivers.