The Responsibilities of a Bicyclist

In some states, bicycles are actually considered vehicles, which means cyclists will often times have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists on the road. Before you ever venture out on your bicycle, it’s important that you know and understand the rules and your responsibilities as a bicyclist. To help you stay safe when you’re on the road, read up on these great and helpful tips.

• Travel with the flow of traffic. When cycling, be sure to ride on the right hand side, traveling in the same direction as other vehicles. Always travel with the flow of traffic and not against it.

• Comply with all traffic laws. Remember, a bicycle is considered a vehicle and you its driver. So when you’re traveling in the street, make it a point to follow all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.

• Whenever it is appropriate or necessary, yield to traffic. Typically, most drivers on smaller roads have to yield for traffic traveling on a major or larger road. If you are in an area where there is no stop sign or traffic signal and are traveling from a smaller roadway, be sure to slow down and check to see if the way is clear before moving forward. Be aware that you might also have to yield to pedestrians that may have already entered into a crosswalk.

• Try your best to be predictable. Traverse in a straight line and avoid moving in and out of vehicles. It’s also best to signal your moves to others.

• Always remain alert. Use both your eyes and ears. Keep an eye out for potholes, cracks, wet debris, storm grates, bumps, or any other things that could possibly make you lose control of your bicycle. Listen for traffic to avoid dangerous situations and avoid wearing a headset when you are riding.

• Before you turn, look. Whether you are turning left or right, it’s important that you always check behind you for a break in traffic, after you’ve checked, signal before making your turn.

• Keep an eye out for parked cars. Make sure that when you are riding, that you ride far enough out from the curb to avoid unexpected happenings from parked cars like doors opening or cars pulling out.