Bike Safety: Rules of the Road

1: LOCAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Know what’s allowed, and not allowed, no matter where you’re riding. Sometimes you can't ride on the sidewalk. And certain classifications of e-bike are allowed on different paths and roads.

2: GO WITH THE FLOW

When on the road, ride on the correct side, in the same direction as traffic. There are various reasons for this, but a big one is that cars pulling out onto the road will see you better, and not run into you. And you won’t run into them. Win-win.

3: OBEY SIGNALS AND SIGNS

The laws of the road, including traffic signals and street signs — as well as the laws of physics — apply to us all.

4: HAND SIGNALS

Use these tried-and-true hand signals to communicate to others.

5: CAREFUL OF CARS

Assume no one can see you. Be overly cautious as you are more vulnerable than those in the big, speeding metal boxes.

6: BE ALERT

Keep an eye out for other riders, obstacles, etc. Because running into an open car door is just as gnarly as it looks in the movies.

7: BE COURTEOUS

Ride single file and pass fellow riders on the left. With a little ding of the bell, of course.