The right equipment can literally save your life when you ride. See the picture for all the equipment you should use.
The first, and most important piece of safety equipment is a properly fitting helmet. It protects your brain, which is everyone’s most valuable asset! Make sure that it is properly fitted (see here for how to do that). Wearing it fastened is also really important. Having a helmet on your handlebars or unfastened on your head will not provide any protection.
Other safety equipment can help you see and be seen better. A rear view mirror is a way to see vehicles and cyclists behind you. They can be mounted on your helmet, glasses, or on your bike. Click here to see a video on selecting a mirror.
Bright, reflective clothing is also very important, especially at night. Don’t wear black! Add reflectors and reflective strips to your bike, too.
Wear glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes from flying debris from cars.
Surprising to many, a good bell is a necessary piece of safety equipment. Don’t forget to use it! It can warn pedestrians and motorists that you are coming up behind them or are in a place they are not expecting.
Lastly, don’t forget to get front and back lights for your bike if you ride at night. There are many options now, including lights that can be charged with a USB cable.