Your safety and image of bicyclists depend on you. You have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Obey traffic signals and stop signs. Ride with traffic; use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going.
Make your intentions clear to everyone on the road. Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars. Signal turns, and check behind you well before turning or changing lanes.
Ride where people can see you and wear bright clothing. Use a front white light, red rear light and reflectors when visibility is poor. Make eye contact with others and don’t ride on sidewalks.
Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians, and other people on bikes will do next. Watch for turning vehicles and ride outside the door zone of parked cars. Look out for debris, potholes, and other road hazards. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
Check that your tires are sufficiently inflated, brakes are working, chain runs smoothly, and quick release levers are closed. Carry tools and supplies that are appropriate for your ride. Wear a helmet.
“May Use Full Lane” sign, allows bicyclists to use full width of travel lane
“Begin Right Turn Lane Yield to Bikes” sign, near designated vehicle right-turn lanes
Bike Route Directional signs indicate changes in direction of the bike lane.
Signs indicating the beginning, end and direction to a bike lane.
Designated bike lane — either Class 2 or Class 3 — that specifies where a cyclist should ride on the road.
Bike Route double-directional arrow sign
A signed bike route where bikes and motor vehicles are not separated.
Striped bike lane that clearly separates the bike route from traffic.
For more safety tips and helpful cycling information visit the League of American Bicyclists at bikeleague.org. THE LEAGUE represents bicyclists in the movement to create safer roads, stronger communities, and a bicycle-friendly America. Through information, advocacy and promotion, we work to celebrate and preserve the freedom cycling brings to our members everywhere.