Bike Safety
Earlier this summer I rode my bike to work for several days. (I’d still be riding my bike to work, but my office building was closed due to record flooding in my city last month and hasn’t opened back up yet so I’ve been working from home.) On day number two of riding my bike to work I took a spill. A big spill. I tried to jump a curb (because clearly I think I’m still a teenager) and completely missed. I flew forward over my handlebars slamming in to the sidewalk. I scraped up my leg, hip, shoulder and forehead. But it could have been worse. I wasn’t wearing a helmet which is a total no-no when you are riding your bike, but unfortunately it’s fairly common for bike riders.
For many teens their mode of transportation all summer long is by bike. And many of those teens are not only missing their helmets, they are also not following other precautions for bike safety. Every year around 300,000 kids end up in the ER because of a bike accident. Some kids even die from brain injuries because they weren’t wearing their helmets. Is very important that kids stay safe on their bikes.
Wear a helmet.
- Always wear your helmet every single time you are on your bike no matter how short the drive.
- Parents should be good role models and wear helmets when the ride too.
- Wear a helmet made for biking. A football helmet should NOT be used as an alternative.
- Do not wear a helmet that is too small or too big.
- The helmet should fit level on your head, covering your forehead. Do not tilt it back to the back of your head.
- Make sure the straps are fastened and tight enough so the helmet doesn’t slip out of place.
- If you do get in to an accident with your helmet, replace it for your next ride.
Adjust the bike seat.
- The seat should be level; not tilted up or down. If the seat is not level you could put too much pressure on your arms, legs or knees.
- Make sure the seat is the right height. When you pedal your leg should be fully extended when you are in the downward position and your knee should be slightly bent in the upward position. Your knees should not be up in your chest.
- Adjust the seat forward or backward so you can reach the handelbars.
Adjust the handlebars.
- Adjust the height of the handlebars and how close they are from you. This will prevent neck, shoulder, back and hand pain.
- It may be trial and error, but make sure you can comfortably reach the handlebars and handbrake (if your bike has one).
- You should be able to comfortably bend your elbows while riding.
Test the rest of the equipment.
- Make sure the chain is on securely and oil it regularly so it doesn’t fall off unexpectedly while you are riding.
- Check the brakes to make sure they aren’t sticking.
- Check the tire pressure to make sure you have enough air in the tires.
Follow the rules of the road (just like cars).
- Keep your hands on the handlebars.
- Bikes are made for one person. Do not let a friend ride on your handlebars.
- Stop and check for traffic before crossing intersections or entering on to a road.
- Ride in the same directions as cars do. Do not ride against traffic.
- Stay on the right side of the road so cars can safely pass you.
- Stop at all stop signs and street lights.
- Ride single file when riding with friends.
- Use the proper hand signals.
- Don’t ride at night unless you have lights. Reflectors are not good enough for night riding.
Bike riding can be great exercise and a lot of fun. It can also be an easy way for teens (who can’t drive) to get around. But it can also be dangerous if you don’t follow the laws and practice safe riding. Be careful.
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