©2004 Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council
P.O. Box 17164, Lansing, Michigan 48901-7164
(517) 214-5684 jessicayorko@sustainablesolutions.biz
Smart Commute - Bike Safety
Bicycling quick links:
Smart Commute bike
commuting classes
Bingham walks and bikes
to school
Bicycling Safety Information

  • Protect your head.  Wear a properly fitted, approved helmet.
          Helmets can prevent serious injury in 85% of crashes.

  • Know your local traffic laws. Act like a vehicle, and obey all signals
          and signs.

  • Always ride single file, in a straight path, on the right side of the road. Ride as far to the right
    as possible, but do not hug the curb or gutter pan.

  • See and be seen.  Wear bright colored clothing or a bright vest over your clothing.

  • When riding at night wear light colored clothing with retro reflective triangular patches.

  • Make sure your bicycle is equipped with front and rear reflectors.  Pedals and wheels
    should also be equipped with reflectors.

  • Always check your brakes before riding.

  • Stay alert.  Learn to anticipate the actions of other vehicles and pedestrians.  

  • Always be conscious of possible hazards such as gravel, potholes and road litter.

  • Be sure that items such as clothes and books are either carried in a backpack or securely
    attached to your bicycle.

  • Keep a minimum of four feet between your bike and parked cars to avoid driver side door
    swing. Watch for drivers' heads in parked cars.

  • Ride consistently predictably, and attentively. Unusual or erratic movements can make
    drivers uneasy and may encourage animosity.

  • Establish eye contact when possible. Watch for inattentive motorists, do not assume that
    they see you.  YOU ARE INVISIBLE ON THE SIDEWALK-- ESPECIALLY IF YOU RIDE
    AGAINST TRAFFIC.


For more information on how to prepare yourself and your bicycle for safe
commuting please visit any of the following websites:

www.kenkifer.com/bikepages/traffic

www.state.il.us/kids/isp/bikes/default.htm        

www.ibike.org/education/safety-materials.htm

www.familydoctor.org/692.xml

www.hendersonville-pd.org/PreventionTips/BikeSafety.html
Register!