Rules For Safe Riding

• Give hand and arm signals:

  Before turning or stopping, give the proper signal in plenty of time to let others know what you intend to do.

• Ride on the right:

  Ride only on the right hand side of the street or road the same as if you were driving an automobile. Watch carefully when passing a parked car or truck. When overtaking a car ahead, pass on the left when the way is clear.

• Ride single file:

  When on the streets and highways with other bicyclists, ride Indian Style, or single file, one behind the other. Keep three bicycle lengths behind the rider you are following.

• Use your own power:

  Never hitch on to cars or trucks. Bicycle riders or persons on coaster or roller skates must never sling or hold on to moving cars or trucks. Keep a safe distance behind the car or truck you are following, ready for a sudden stop.

• Ride alone:

  Don't carry another person on the handlebars or crossbar of your bicycle. It makes balance uncertain and steering unsteady. Only one person should ride on a standard bicycle.

• Night riding:

  Night riding is doubly dangerous. Don't ride after dark if you can avoid it. If you must ride at night, ride slowly with extra care and remember you must have a good light and reflector that can be seen clearly.

• Ride straight:

  Ride in a straight line. Don't weave in and out of traffic or try trick riding on the street or sidewalk. Keep your head up.

• Enter the street with care:

  Don't ride out of driveways or alleys or ride from behind parked cars without stopping and looking to see that the sidewalks or streets are clear. Walk your bicycle and mount after leaving the driveway.

• Carry things properly:

  Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. Never carry bundles that will prevent this. It is best to have a bicycle basket on the front, or a rack on the back with straps, to carry books or other packages.

• Stop for red lights and stop signs:

  Obey traffic lights and stop signs just as automobile drivers are required to do. A "stop" sign or "red" light means STOP and then proceed only after you are sure the way is clear.

• Slow down at all street corners:

  Slow down and look both ways before crossing street corners. Walk your bicycle when crossing heavy traffic or busy highways.

• Obey all traffic rules:

  Traffic signs, lights, one-way streets and crosswalk markings apply to the bicycle rider as well as to drivers and people who are walking. You must always ride at a safe speed to fit conditions.

Bicycle Care for Safer Riding

• Adjust the seat to fit your size and tighten.
• Adjust the handlebars to fit you're body and tighten.
• Replace worn handle grips, old ones are dangerous.
• Oil and tighten pedal bearings and spindle.
• A warning bell or a horn is a good idea.
• Make sure you have a good light and good reflectors in case you must ride during the night.
• Make sure that your brakes work properly.
• Replace broken spokes at once.