According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control more then 700 people die as a result of bicycle related injuries each year in the United States In 2001, 59% of bicycle related injuries were by children 15 years of age or younger.
To make sure you don't end up as a statistic follow these steps:
Wear a bike helmet at all times. The most serious bike injuries are to the head.
Always strap on an approved safety helmet before you ride. Helmets are an essential element to bicycle safety.
Try to keep your bike in good shape.
Always let cars and people go first.
Slow down and check traffic at all corners
Follow the same rules as other traffic.
Wear brightly colored clothing.
Keep both hands on the handle bars except when doing turn signals.