Riding a bicycle is more than just a form of transportation. It’s also a great way to stay healthy and have fun! Going for a bike ride can be a great way to relax, enjoy the weather, and get some exercise. Riding your bike will probably always be more fun than driving in a car because you actually have to pedal! You get the satisfaction of feeling the full range of motion in your legs and upper body while you bike. And while it’s usually pretty safe, there are some dangers you should be aware of.
1. Wear A Helmet
This might seem obvious, but a surprising number of people still don’t wear helmets while riding their bikes. Even though you’re going for a casual ride around the block, it’s important to protect your mind and body from potential impacts. Most bike helmets are very lightweight and comfortable to wear. You should definitely invest in a helmet if you plan on biking often.
2. Follow The Rules
Not everyone follows the rules when they drive a car, but you should absolutely follow the rules of the road when you ride your bike. Just because biking is an eco-friendly way to get around doesn’t mean it’s free from laws.
A lot of cyclists tend to act as pedestrians when riding their bikes. However, as a Honolulu bicycle accident attorney says – bicycles are considered vehicles, just like cars. That means that the same traffic laws apply to you. Stop at red lights, yield when necessary, and don’t ride on sidewalks in areas where it’s not allowed.
Keep in mind, though, that even when you have a right of passage, drivers of cars (and other vehicles) might not see you. It’s important to ride your bike where there is plenty of space for both you and the cars.
3. Make Sure Your Bike Is Safe
If you want to keep biking for years, you have to take good care of your bike. You should check the brakes, gears, and tire pressure before every ride. Also, you should make sure that everything is tightly secured on your bicycle – things tend to fall off as you’re riding!
Every time you get back from a ride, inspect your bike thoroughly. It’s important that you keep up with your bike maintenance, so if something seems out of place, tighten it or replace it. Make sure that you check your tires for any punctures or other damages, and replace them if necessary.
Having lights on your bike at night is another great way to keep yourself safe. If you’re biking around other vehicles, it pays to be visible. This will also help drivers see you!
4. Wear Bright Colored Clothing
Bright colors are both highly visible and attractive to look at. You should always wear bright clothing whenever you go for a bike ride. That way, drivers can see you from a distance and avoid hitting you.
If you prefer a more neutral style, that’s fine too. Everyone has their own personal style, just make sure that your clothes are light-colored and reflect light well. You might even want to invest in some reflective gear like armbands or ankle bands.
Getting your clothes stuck in the chain of your bicycle can stop you from moving. It’s beneficial to wear clothes that don’t get tangled up in the gears and wheels of your bike.
5. Avoid Distractions
There is an endless amount of distractions when you bike, but don’t let them get the best of you. Getting distracted for even a second can put you in danger, so make sure that you stay focused on the road.
If someone calls you while you’re riding, stop pedaling and call them back when it’s safe to do so. Every time you bike while checking your phone, you put yourself at risk. Even if it’s just for a quick minute, that can be more than enough time to veer into the wrong lane and get hit by another vehicle.
6. Don’t Ride Under The Influence
Alcohol seriously impairs your judgment, focus, and motor skills. Also, biking around other vehicles is even more dangerous when you’re drunk, because it becomes difficult to gauge their speed and steer clear of them. If you want to go for a bike ride after having some drinks, call an Uber or Lyft so that you can get home safely. You should always plan ahead if you want to be safe while biking!
While we focused on riding a bicycle as a mode of transportation, it’s also a great way to have some fun! However, you should always be safe when biking. Don’t forget that you can also take your bike off-road and enjoy a casual bicycle ride in a safe, scenic environment. Remember to have fun – just keep safety as your number one priority!
