Bicycle Safety

A helmet fits correctly when...
1. It fits snugly and does not move around. 
2. It sits two finger-widths above your eyebrows. 
3. The straps meet in a 'V' just below your ears. 
4. You can place no more than two fingers between your chin and the strap.

Keep in mind...
1. Helmets do not prevent falls or crashes; they only reduce injury in a crash. A cycling safety course will help you avoid crashes. 
2. It's unsafe to wear a hat under your helmet. 
3. Replace your bicycle helmet if it has received any strong impact-even if damage isn't visible on the outside-or if it is 5 years old.

Rules of the Road

Bicycles are vehicles and cyclists have the same rights and duties as motorists!

  1. Stop at all stop signs and red lights. 
  2. Signal all lane changes, turns and stops. 
  3. You must allow 3 ft of distance between yourself and other motorists. 
  4. Cycle on the right side of the road. 
  5. Ride only in the designated direction on one-way streets. 
  6. Share the road with other users. 
  7. Give pedestrians the right-of-way. 
  8. Dress to be visible. 
  9. Use lights when riding at night. 
10. Have a bell, gong, or horn on your bike. 
11. Use proper hand signaling when turning and stopping.

Riding at night
1. Riding at night is riding between ½ hour before sunset and ½ hour after sunrise. 
2. When riding at night or in low visibility conditions, you need a white front light and a red rear reflector. 
3. The Lakeland Police department also suggests you also use a red rear light and wear bright clothing with reflective elements. 
4. Never assume that other drivers see you. Near sunrise and sunset, and when the road is wet, glare can make you less visible.

Riding Tips for the Pathways
1. Keep to the right. 
2. Pass other users only when safe. 
3. Use your bell or voice to warn others when you pass. 
4. Shoulder-check to see if the way is clear. 
5. Pull off the pathway when stopped.