Category: Transportation

Riding a Bicycle Safely

A bicycle can make local trips faster and easier than walking. It may help you get to work or school, run errands, reach public transportation, exercise, and travel without the expense of owning a car.

Riding safely requires more than knowing how to balance and pedal. You need a properly fitting bicycle, working equipment, a correctly fitted helmet, an appropriate route, and an understanding of how to share roads and paths with other people.

Bicycle laws vary by state and community. Learn your local rules before riding on roads, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, or shared-use paths.

Make Sure You Are Ready to Ride

Before riding near traffic, you should be able to:

• Start without losing control
• Ride in a straight line
• Stop smoothly
• Use both brakes properly
• Look behind you without swerving
• Signal a turn
• Avoid obstacles
• Control the bicycle on hills
• Shift gears, if the bicycle has them
• Make safe turns
• Ride slowly when necessary

If you are still developing these skills, practice in a safe area away from traffic.

Good practice locations may include:

• An empty parking lot
• A quiet paved path
• A closed recreational area
• A low-traffic residential street
• A bicycle-skills course

Build your confidence gradually. Do not begin on a busy road simply because that is where you eventually want to ride.

Choose the Right Bicycle

A bicycle should match:

• Your height
• Your physical abilities
• Your riding experience
• The types of routes you will use
• What you need to carry
• The distance you plan to travel

Common types include:

• Road bicycles
• Mountain bicycles
• Hybrid bicycles
• Cruiser bicycles
• Folding bicycles
• Recumbent bicycles
• Adult tricycles
• Electric bicycles

A bicycle shop can help you select the correct style and size. A bicycle that is too large, too small, or difficult to control may increase your risk of falling.

Check the Bicycle’s Fit

When standing over a traditional bicycle frame, you should generally have some clearance between your body and the top tube. The exact amount depends on the bicycle’s design.

The seat should allow you to:

• Reach the pedals comfortably
• Maintain control when stopping
• Pedal without excessive hip movement
• Avoid locking your knees completely
• Place a foot down when necessary

The handlebars should be positioned so you can:

• Reach the brakes easily
• Steer without stretching
• Maintain a comfortable posture
• Look ahead instead of only at the ground

If you are uncertain about the fit, ask a bicycle shop to adjust it.

Wear a Bicycle Helmet

Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet every time you ride, even if the trip is short.

Choose a helmet that:

• Is designed for bicycle riding
• Meets applicable U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards
• Fits your head correctly
• Has no visible cracks or damage
• Has working straps and buckles

A helmet should sit level on your head, not tilted backward. The front should rest about one or two finger-widths above your eyebrows.

The side straps should form a V shape beneath and slightly in front of each ear. The chin strap should be snug enough that only one or two fingers fit underneath it.

The helmet should not slide forward, backward, or sideways when you move your head.

Replace a helmet:

• After a crash or significant impact
• If the outer shell is cracked
• If the foam is damaged
• If the straps or buckle no longer work
• According to the manufacturer’s replacement guidance

A helmet can be damaged internally even when the damage is not obvious.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Choose clothing that allows you to move and helps other road users see you.

Wear:

• Bright colors during the day
• Reflective materials in low light
• Comfortable clothing
• Closed-toe shoes
• Weather-appropriate layers
• Gloves if they improve your grip

Secure:

• Loose shoelaces
• Wide pant legs
• Long skirts
• Jacket strings
• Bag straps
• Other loose material

Anything hanging near the chain, spokes, or pedals can become caught while you are riding.

Avoid riding in flip-flops, loose sandals, or shoes that may slip off the pedals.

Complete a Pre-Ride Safety Check

Check the bicycle before every ride.

Air

Squeeze each tire. It should feel firm and be inflated to the recommended pressure printed on the tire’s sidewall.

Look for:

• Cuts
• Cracks
• Bulges
• Embedded objects
• Excessive wear

Brakes

Squeeze both brake levers. They should feel firm and stop the wheels without touching the handlebars.

Test the brakes at a slow speed before entering traffic.

Chain and Cranks

Check that:

• The chain is on the gears
• The pedals turn smoothly
• The cranks are secure
• Nothing is caught in the chain
• The chain is not excessively rusty or dry

Wheels

Make sure:

• The wheels are securely attached
• The rims do not wobble
• The spokes are intact
• Nothing rubs against the tires

Handlebars and Seat

Confirm that the handlebars and seat are straight and secure. They should not twist or move when you apply ordinary pressure.

Lights and Reflectors

Check that required lights and reflectors are present, clean, and working.

If something does not feel right, do not ride until the problem is corrected.

Carry Basic Supplies

What you carry will depend on the distance and location of your ride.

Useful items may include:

• Identification
• Emergency contact information
• Charged phone
• Water
• Small amount of money
• Transit card
• Portable tire pump
• Spare inner tube
• Tire levers
• Basic multitool
• Bicycle lock
• Weather protection
• Necessary medication
• Small first-aid kit

Carry only tools you know how to use. If you cannot repair a flat tire or mechanical problem, have a plan for calling someone or using another form of transportation.

Plan a Bicycle-Friendly Route

The fastest driving route may not be the safest bicycle route.

Look for:

• Protected bicycle lanes
• Lower-speed roads
• Streets with less traffic
• Dedicated bicycle paths
• Safe intersections
• Good road surfaces
• Adequate lighting
• Fewer hills
• Bicycle parking
• Public-transit connections

Avoid routes with:

• High-speed traffic
• Narrow shoulders
• Complicated intersections
• Heavy truck traffic
• Poor lighting
• Frequent construction
• Damaged pavement
• Limited visibility

Review the route before leaving and plan an alternative in case conditions change.

Learn Your Local Bicycle Laws

Bicycle laws differ by state and community.

Local rules may address:

• Helmet requirements
• Minimum rider age
• Sidewalk riding
• Required lights and reflectors
• Use of bicycle lanes
• Hand signals
• Riding beside another cyclist
• Carrying passengers
• Electric bicycles
• Yielding and stopping
• Where bicycles may be parked

Many states treat bicycles as vehicles when they are used on public roads. This generally means riders must follow traffic signs, signals, lane markings, and right-of-way rules.

Check an official state or local government source instead of relying on what other riders do.

Ride in the Same Direction as Traffic

When riding on a road, travel in the same direction as motor-vehicle traffic unless local infrastructure or signs direct otherwise.

Do not ride against traffic.

Riding with traffic helps drivers:

• Predict your movement
• See you at intersections
• Understand where you belong
• Respond to your signals
• Pass you more safely

Ride predictably and in a straight line. Avoid weaving between parked cars or moving unpredictably between the road and sidewalk.

Use Bicycle Lanes Correctly

A bicycle lane is a portion of the road marked for bicycle travel.

When using one:

• Follow the indicated direction.
• Watch for parked vehicles.
• Look for cars entering or leaving driveways.
• Be cautious where vehicles cross the lane to turn.
• Avoid riding too close to the curb.
• Leave space to avoid debris and drainage grates.
• Signal and check behind you before leaving the lane.

A painted line does not prevent a driver from entering the lane. Continue watching for turning, parking, and opening vehicles.

Protected bicycle lanes provide more physical separation but may still create conflicts at intersections and driveways.

Avoid the Door Zone

A person inside a parked vehicle may open the door without seeing you.

Leave enough space between your bicycle and parked cars to avoid suddenly opened doors. Look for signs that someone may exit, including:

• Brake lights
• Interior lights
• A driver inside
• Movement through the windows
• A vehicle that has just parked
• A rideshare passenger preparing to leave

If you must move farther into the travel lane, check behind you, signal, and move predictably when it is safe.

Know When to Take More Space

Riding as close to the edge of the road as possible is not always safe.

You may need additional space to avoid:

• Parked-car doors
• Potholes
• Broken pavement
• Drainage grates
• Glass or debris
• Construction
• Puddles
• Snow or ice
• Narrow lanes
• Turning vehicles

Move gradually and predictably. Check behind you and signal before changing your lane position.

Local laws determine where bicyclists should ride, so understand the rules in your area.

Obey Signs and Signals

Follow:

• Stop signs
• Traffic lights
• Yield signs
• Lane arrows
• One-way signs
• Railroad signals
• Pedestrian crossings
• Construction signs

Come to a complete stop where required. Check for pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles before continuing.

Do not assume an intersection is clear because you do not hear a vehicle. Electric vehicles and other bicycles may be very quiet.

Communicate With Other Road Users

Use hand signals to show what you plan to do.

Common signals include:

• Left arm extended for a left turn
• Right arm extended for a right turn
• Left arm bent upward for a right turn where recognized
• Left arm bent downward to indicate slowing or stopping

Local rules may specify which signals are accepted.

Signal early enough for others to respond. Keep both hands on the handlebars when road conditions require full control.

A signal communicates your intention, but it does not guarantee that another person will yield. Check before moving.

Look Behind You Safely

Before turning, changing lanes, or moving around an obstacle:

1. Continue riding in a straight line.
2. Look over your shoulder.
3. Check for approaching traffic.
4. Signal.
5. Look again if needed.
6. Move only when it is safe.

Practice looking behind you without swerving in an empty parking lot or quiet area.

A bicycle mirror may help, but it should not completely replace a shoulder check.

Be Extra Careful at Intersections

Intersections are common locations for bicycle crashes.

Watch for:

• Drivers turning right across your path
• Drivers turning left in front of you
• Vehicles entering from side streets
• Pedestrians entering a crosswalk
• Vehicles that do not stop completely
• Buses pulling toward the curb
• Other cyclists approaching quickly

Slow down and prepare to stop.

Try to make eye contact with drivers, but never assume eye contact guarantees they will yield.

Position Yourself for a Turn

Plan turns before reaching the intersection.

For a right turn:

• Check behind you.
• Signal.
• Move into the appropriate position.
• Slow down.
• Yield where required.
• Complete the turn predictably.

For a left turn, you may be able to:

• Move into the appropriate traffic lane and turn like a vehicle, or
• Complete a two-stage turn by crossing the intersection, stopping in a safe position, and then continuing with the next signal.

Choose the method that is legal and appropriate for your experience and the road conditions.

If an intersection feels too complicated, dismount and walk the bicycle through the crosswalk as a pedestrian, following pedestrian signals.

Cross Railroad and Streetcar Tracks Carefully

Bicycle tires can become caught in tracks.

Approach tracks:

• Slowly
• As close to a right angle as possible
• Without turning or braking sharply on the rails

Tracks may be especially slippery when wet.

If you cannot cross safely while riding, get off and walk the bicycle across after checking for trains and following all signals.

Watch for Road Hazards

Look ahead for:

• Potholes
• Loose gravel
• Wet leaves
• Glass
• Sand
• Metal plates
• Drainage grates
• Train tracks
• Oil
• Ice
• Standing water
• Branches
• Construction debris

Avoid sudden movements when possible. Slow down, check behind you, and move around the hazard predictably.

Do not ride through a puddle when you cannot see the pavement underneath it. The water may hide a deep pothole.

Riding on Sidewalks

Sidewalk-bicycle laws vary. Riding may be prohibited in business districts or other areas.

Sidewalk riding can create risks because:

• Drivers may not expect a bicycle at driveways.
• Pedestrians may step into your path.
• Sidewalks may end suddenly.
• Visibility at intersections may be poor.
• The riding surface may be narrow or uneven.

If sidewalk riding is legal and necessary:

• Ride slowly.
• Yield to pedestrians.
• Give an audible warning before passing.
• Leave enough space.
• Watch every driveway.
• Slow down before crossing streets.
• Follow pedestrian signals where required.
• Be prepared to stop.

Walk the bicycle when the sidewalk is crowded or too narrow to pass safely.

Riding on Shared Paths

Shared-use paths may include pedestrians, runners, children, pets, scooters, and other cyclists.

Follow posted rules and:

• Stay to the appropriate side.
• Travel at a safe speed.
• Pass only when there is enough room.
• Announce “Passing on your left” or use a bell.
• Slow down near children and animals.
• Avoid blocking the path.
• Stop off the path when taking a break.
• Yield where required.

Do not assume everyone will hear your warning. Some people use headphones or have hearing loss.

Stay Visible

To improve visibility:

• Wear bright clothing during the day.
• Use reflective material in low light.
• Install a white front light.
• Use a red rear light.
• Keep required reflectors clean.
• Avoid riding in vehicle blind spots.
• Ride where drivers expect to see traffic.
• Use hand signals.
• Avoid sudden movement.

Check your state and local laws for lighting requirements.

Use lights at dawn, dusk, at night, during rain, and whenever visibility is reduced. A light helps you see, but it also helps other people see you.

Avoid Vehicle Blind Spots

Large vehicles have substantial areas where the driver may not see you.

Avoid riding:

• Directly beside a truck or bus
• Immediately behind a large vehicle
• Between a vehicle and the curb at an intersection
• Where a turning vehicle may cross your path

If you cannot see the driver’s mirrors, the driver may not be able to see you.

Give buses and trucks extra room. They may swing wide or move toward the curb when turning.

Do Not Ride Distracted

While riding:

• Put your phone away.
• Do not text.
• Avoid watching a screen.
• Do not wear headphones that block important sounds.
• Keep your hands available to control the bicycle.
• Remain aware of traffic and the road surface.

If you need directions, stop in a safe location away from traffic before checking your phone.

Never Ride While Impaired

Alcohol, cannabis, certain medications, and other drugs can affect:

• Balance
• Coordination
• Reaction time
• Judgment
• Vision
• Attention

Do not ride when impaired.

Check medication warnings and ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are uncertain whether a medication affects your ability to ride safely.

Carry Items Safely

Do not hang bags from the handlebars or carry items in your hands.

Use:

• A backpack
• A bicycle basket
• Panniers
• A rear rack
• A properly attached cargo bag
• A bicycle trailer designed for the purpose

Secure the load so it cannot:

• Shift
• Fall
• Enter the spokes
• Block a light or reflector
• Interfere with steering
• Affect your balance

Balance weight evenly and stay within the equipment’s weight limit.

Carrying Passengers

Do not carry another person unless the bicycle is designed and equipped for that passenger.

Passengers should use:

• A properly installed seat or trailer
• Required restraints
• An appropriate helmet
• Foot protection from wheels and spokes

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local laws. Never allow someone to sit on the handlebars or an unsecured rear rack.

Riding in Poor Weather

Rain, snow, wind, and ice can affect visibility, traction, and braking.

In poor weather:

• Reduce your speed.
• Allow more stopping distance.
• Avoid sharp turns.
• Brake earlier and more gently.
• Use lights.
• Wear visible clothing.
• Watch for slippery surfaces.
• Avoid painted road markings and metal covers when wet.
• Keep both hands available.
• Change routes if necessary.

Strong winds can push a bicycle sideways. Ice can make riding unsafe even at very low speeds.

It is okay to choose another form of transportation when conditions are poor.

Riding an Electric Bicycle

Electric bicycles can travel faster and weigh more than traditional bicycles.

Before using one:

• Learn the controls.
• Understand the assistance levels.
• Practice starting and stopping.
• Learn how the motor responds.
• Check the battery.
• Allow more braking distance.
• Confirm where the bicycle is legally permitted.
• Understand any age or helmet requirements.
• Know the bicycle’s class.

Electric-bicycle classifications and laws vary. Some paths, sidewalks, parks, and trails restrict certain types of electric bicycles.

Do not modify an electric bicycle to exceed legal or manufacturer limits.

Lock the Bicycle Securely

Use a strong lock and attach the bicycle to a solid, permitted object.

For better protection:

• Lock the frame, not only a wheel.
• Include a wheel when possible.
• Remove easily detachable accessories.
• Choose a visible, well-traveled location.
• Avoid objects that can be cut or lifted.
• Record the bicycle’s serial number.
• Keep photographs and proof of purchase.
• Register the bicycle if a local program is available.

Never lock the bicycle where it blocks a sidewalk, doorway, ramp, fire exit, or accessible route.

Basic Bicycle Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps prevent equipment failures.

Check and maintain:

• Tire pressure
• Tire condition
• Brake pads
• Brake cables or hydraulic systems
• Chain lubrication
• Gear shifting
• Wheel attachment
• Spokes
• Lights
• Reflectors
• Pedals
• Handlebars
• Seat

Have the bicycle inspected if you notice:

• Unusual noises
• Wobbling
• Weak brakes
• Skipping gears
• A loose wheel
• A damaged tire
• Cracks in the frame
• Steering problems

Do not continue riding when a problem affects control or braking.

If the Bicycle Breaks Down

Move out of traffic and stop in a safe location.

Then:

1. Identify the problem.
2. Repair it only if you know how.
3. Call someone you trust.
4. Walk the bicycle.
5. Use public transportation if bicycles are permitted.
6. Contact a bicycle shop or roadside-assistance service.
7. Secure the bicycle if you must leave it.

Do not attempt repairs in the roadway.

If You Crash

After a crash:

1. Move away from traffic if you can do so safely.
2. Check yourself for injuries.
3. Call 911 or your local emergency number for serious injuries or danger.
4. Do not immediately ride away.
5. Check the bicycle before using it again.
6. Replace a helmet that sustained an impact.
7. Obtain medical care when needed.

Pain, dizziness, confusion, nausea, weakness, or vision changes after a head impact require prompt attention. A person can have a concussion without losing consciousness.

If a Vehicle Is Involved

Call emergency services when someone is injured or the scene is unsafe.

If you can do so safely, collect:

• The driver’s name
• Contact information
• Insurance information
• License-plate number
• Vehicle description
• Witness information
• Photographs of the scene
• Photographs of damage
• The police report number

Do not argue with or chase the driver. Your safety and medical care come first.

Practice Before Relying on the Bicycle

Before using your bicycle for work, school, or an important appointment:

• Practice the route.
• Ride during daylight.
• Avoid the busiest traffic period.
• Locate bicycle lanes.
• Identify difficult intersections.
• Check the travel time.
• Find secure parking.
• Practice carrying your normal items.
• Create a backup transportation plan.

A practice ride can reveal hills, road damage, construction, and traffic conditions that are not obvious on a map.

Final Thoughts

Safe bicycle riding begins before you enter the road. Use a bicycle that fits, wear a properly fitted helmet, inspect the equipment, and choose a route appropriate for your ability.

Ride with traffic, follow signs and signals, communicate your intentions, and remain predictable. Assume drivers may not see you, especially at intersections, beside parked vehicles, and near buses or trucks.

Confidence comes from practice, not from taking unnecessary risks. Start in a controlled area, build your skills gradually, and choose another transportation option whenever the route, weather, traffic, or bicycle condition makes riding unsafe.

Related Guides

• Walking Safely as a Pedestrian
• Planning a Trip Before You Leave
• Reading Maps, Routes & Turn-by-Turn Directions
• Choosing the Best Way to Get Somewhere
• Understanding Transportation Costs
• Getting Somewhere New
• Basic Home Maintenance
• What to Do When Something Breaks
• Deciding Whether to Fix, Replace, or Get Help
• Keeping Track of Your Belongings
• When Is It an Emergency?