Bicycle Safety Tips Before You Ride

Children riding bicycles

Data from the NHTSA’s National Center for Statistics and Analytics shows that there were 846 cyclist deaths in 2019, which accounted for about 2.4% percent of all traffic fatalities during the year.

Wear a helmet.
Always wear a helmet. Many states have laws that require bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet, but adult riders should wear them too. They can be purchased for a low price at a local bike shop or sporting goods store.

Obey the rules of the road.
Bicyclists have all of the same responsibilities as motorists. Obey all stop signs and traffic lights. Never ride against traffic.

Keep your bike in good working order.
Keep your bike working properly with routine maintenance. Check your brakes and tires every time before you ride.

Be visible.
Wear bright clothing and make sure your reflectors are attached properly. If riding at night, wear reflective clothing and be sure to use lights.

Do not use headphones.
Being able to hear vehicles, pedestrians and other bikers is important for your safety. Do not listen to headphones or talk on mobile phones while riding.

Bicycle Safety Inspection Checklist

Check all the boxes that apply when making your bicycle inspection and make any necessary adjustments before you ride.

Handlebars

Move sideways
Move front to back
Good condition

Saddle position

Too high
Too low
Too loose
Correct height
No movement

Tires

Low Pressure
Worn
Good condition

Front Fork

Bent
Cracked
Good condition

Hand brakes

Front pads worn
Levers need adjustment
Rear pads worn
Cable ends frayed
Cable ends capped
Brakes working correctly

Coaster foot brakes

Brakes not working
Brakes effective

Hand grips

Hand grips uncovered
Ends plugged and protected
Grips don't twist

Frame

Too big
Too small

Reflectors & lights

Front light missing
Rear red reflector missing
Reflector hanger bent
Good condition

Chain

Dirty
Rusty
Loose
Good condition

Quick release levers

Closed
Facing backward