Every year as the weather gets warmer, more bicyclists are out and about. May is National Bike Month. The League of American Bicyclists encourages communities from coast to coast to give biking a try. Biking has many benefits, from supporting physical health to helping our environment. With many communities practicing social distancing, biking is still a great option for exercise or to get essential supplies in lieu of public transportation. May is a great month to give biking a try. With that in mind, let’s look at four ways to stay safe while celebrating National Bike Month.
1. Follow community guidelines for social distancing.
Depending on when you’re reading this post, community guidelines may be different in regards to social distancing rules. The coronavirus has made it more difficult for us to get outside, and the situation is changing every day. Check the CDC website, as well as your community’s local government guidelines before you decide to give biking a try.
2. Learn proper hand signals.
Hand signals are an integral tool for any bike rider. Just like you must always use your turn signals when behind the wheel of a car, you need to use hand signals when you ride a bike. Check out the infographic below. Memorize the hand signals and practice executing them before you hop on your bike. If you’re planning a family bike ride, make sure everyone knows and uses the proper hand signals.
3. Follow all rules of the road.
Even though you’re not driving a motor vehicle, you still need to follow the proper rules of the road. Here is a quick list of tips from the League of American Bicyclists:
- Ride on the right with the flow of traffic.
- Yield the right-of-way to traffic in busier lanes.
- Don’t swerve between parked cars. Always ride in a straight line.
- Wear bright clothing and stay visible.
- Ride far enough away from the door zone when passing parked cars to avoid a suddenly opened door.
- Always obey traffic signals.
- Plan to stop for yellow lights, because it takes longer for bikes to travel through an intersection than cars.
- Avoid cars that run red lights by scanning the roadway after the signal turns green to make sure it’s safe and clear.
4. Have fun!
Staying inside all day can really take its toll on our mental health. Riding your bike is a great way to get out of the house, even if it’s just a quick ride around the block. Biking isn’t only a mode of transportation, or a way to complete a race. Even a slow bike ride can be fun!
These are just a few tips to keep in mind as you celebrate National Bike Month. We hope you’re able to enjoy some fresh air and sunlight this month! We all need it. If you like learning tips and tricks like this, consider taking one of our defensive driving courses! Our courses are offered completely online and are always available for you. Click here to see which courses we offer in your state!
Every year as the weather gets warmer, more bicyclists are out and about. May is National Bike Month. The League of American Bicyclists encourages communities from coast to coast to give biking a try. Biking has many benefits, from supporting physical health to helping our environment. With many communities practicing social distancing, biking is still a great option for exercise or to get essential supplies in lieu of public transportation. May is a great month to give biking a try. With that in mind, let’s look at four ways to stay safe while celebrating National Bike Month.