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How bicyclists can stay safe this spring

As the weather becomes warmer and we shed our winter coats in favor of the spring sun, we begin to spend more time outdoors. We leave our cars at home and use our bikes to get around, especially for quick trips to the grocery or to meet a friend for lunch on the weekend.

Biking is excellent for exercise as well as for the environment, but it can be dangerous. No matter how experienced you are with biking, it’s important to remember how you can stay safe on the road this spring.

New York bicycling regulations

While it might be tempting to zip down the roads in-between other cars to reach your destination quickly, there are rules you must follow as a bicyclist. In New York, the same laws that motorists follow also apply to bicyclists. This can include:

  • Not riding on the sidewalks
  • Riding your bike with the flow of traffic
  • Always riding in the bicycle lane if one is available
  • Obeying all traffic lights, signs and laws
  • Equipping your bike with a brake, bell or horn, headlight and taillight, and wheel reflectors

Understanding where you can ride your bike is one of the best ways to ensure you are visible to other drivers and will protect you on the road.

Other safety measures for bicyclists

There are plenty of tips you can follow to guarantee your safety further while you ride your bike. Consider any of the following options:

  • Wear bright or reflective clothing.
  • Wear a helmet.
  • Cross the street in well-light intersections, especially at night.
  • Always signal before you turn.
  • Always ride sober.
  • Keep yourself visible to other drivers.
  • Avoid listening to loud music that can distract you from traffic.
  • Be careful of puddles and rainy weather that can make the roads slippery.

Bicycling is a fun alternative to driving and can be a great way to commute during the warmer months. You have as much right to be on the road as a motorist. With these tips in mind, you’ll likely feel safer on the road this spring season.