Riding your bicycle on the city streets is a convenient way to exercise. Unfortunately, many people forget to follow proper safety precautions when taking their bike out for a spin. The below guide will help you keep safety in mind so that you can ride with traffic.

Do:

Know traffic laws.

As a bicyclist, you must adhere to the same traffic laws as the drivers of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This means bringing your bicycle to a full stop at red lights and stop signs, as well as following all other traffic laws. It also means riding with traffic, which means the same direction as the traffic in the lane closest to you.

Let riders and pedestrians know you’re coming.

Accidents can occur with motor vehicles, pedestrians, and other bikers. If someone doesn’t see your bicycle approaching, they may move or change direction at the worst possible moment, causing a collision. Shouting or waving to get their attention is usually enough to let them know you’re going to pass. Additionally, pass on the left whenever possible, since this is the rule that most people follow.

Don’t:

Ride without a helmet.

Wearing an approved safety helmet that fits firmly on the head is essential to your safety and, in many places, is a legal requirement. You should inspect your helmet before each ride and, if it has cracks or damage, you should replace it immediately. Head injuries are common in bicycling accidents, so a helmet can minimize the impact and may save your life in a severe collision.

Ride a broken bike.

Before leaving, you should inspect the bike’s condition. If you suspect a problem with the brakes, or if the steering column seems loose, your first stop should be to a bike repair expert. Even though a bicycle is easier to stop than a motor vehicle, an abrupt halt or turn can create a dangerous situation for someone riding a faulty bike.

For all your bicycle repair or equipment needs, such as reflectors and lights, visit Jim’s Bike & Key Shop in Columbia, MO. They have been serving the community within a 40-mile radius since 1977. They can service your bike, offer accessories for your trip, and provide locksmithing services. Speak to a friendly representative by calling (573) 442-7011. Visit the website for more information about their services.