Share the Road:

A bicycle rider's guide to safe riding.

Welcome friends to the "Share the Road" section of Get-Into-Cycling.com. Ever since my brother's and I moved from riding our bicycles on our parent's driveway to riding on public roads and trails, we have witnessed and encountered countless hazards along the way.

From automobiles, people and animals, to other fellow cyclist and other elements beyond our control, we have experienced many different situations while riding. In this page we will give some suggestions and tips on what to look for and what to do in case you encounter similar situations.

- First and foremost: OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS. You are considered a vehicle, so ride your bike appropriately. This should go without saying.....

- Be patient. Do not try to race against cars. You WILL lose. Keep your distance.

- When stopped at an intersection, allow vehicles to make turns or to pass. Don't block traffic lanes.

- Be aware of parked cars, drivers exiting their cars may not always look behind them and just open the door or worst they just might pull-out and drive away without realizing you are there. Remember you are small comparatively to motor vehicles which makes you less visible.

- Watch for people or animals crossing the street. So slow down as you approach crossings and or intersections.

- Look-out for other cyclist who do not observe cycling etiquette (see "Bicycle Etiquette" section of Safety First).

- Slow down when you are near joggers or walkers. Make your presence known by calling out your location. (example: "Coming on your right.")

- Ride on designated lanes or trails and keep to your right. As mentioned before, you are considered a vehicle. (Check with local vehicle laws in your area for bicycles.) Avoid riding on sidewalks (unless you absolutly have to in order to avoid an obstacle), especially in busy business districts.

- Be as visible as possible by wearing the proper attire, preferrably reflective clothing and lighting equipment.

- Learn and use hand signals so those you share the road with (particularly vehicles) know what you're doing or are about to do.

- Keep your eyes and ears open. Don't use sunglasses in dark conditions or wear headphones.

- If a motor vehicle causes a problem for you, stop and write or try to remember the vehicles description and license plate number. Then, call the police or local authority.

- If possible, try not to ride alone. Remember, there is safety in numbers.

- Never try to ride your bike beyond your limits. (example: Don't ride with no hands on your handlebar if you have poor balance.) Additionally, avoid risky riding (stunts, riding down stairs, etc.).

Remember, you are one of many people who "Share the Road" with other cyclist, vehicle or pedestrians. There are more useful tips related to this subject in our "Bicycle Etiquette" page. Always be responsible when you ride and your experiences will be more enjoyable. Now go and have fun riding your bicycle. Don't forget your helmet.

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== Videos ==

Here are some great videos produced by the League of American Bicyclists outlining proper techniques for riding on the road.

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