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How to Ride a Bike Safely on the Road. Over a half-million cyclists end up in emergency
rooms each year. Lower that number by following some rules on how to stay safe while biking
on the road. You will need A bike with working brakes A bicycle helmet A pair of bike gloves
Sunglasses and knowledge of traffic laws. Step 1. Put on your helmet and gloves. Always
wear them when riding a bike. Step 2. Remember always to ride with the flow of traffic, not
against it. Step 3. Stay to the far right of the lane you’re using. You don’t have
to ride in the gutter, but cars should be able to pass you on your left. Step 4. Don’t
ride on sidewalks. It can surprise pedestrians, and in many places, cycling on the sidewalk
is against the law. Unless posted otherwise, cyclists have a legal right to the road, just
like any car. However, many drivers don’t know this. Try not to yell back at them. Step
5. Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops. Step 6. Obey all traffic signs, signals,
and laws just like any car would. Step 7. At stop signs and red lights, come to a complete
stop so that you have to put your foot on the ground to keep you upright. Step 8. Choose
routes that feature dedicated bike lanes. Step 9. Wear bright clothing to stand out
and sunglasses to protect your eyes from bugs, debris and the sun. Step 10. Keep your tires
properly inflated. An inflated tire is less likely to go flat. And a flat tire can ruin
your day. Step 11. If you’re riding at night, mount a light on the back of your bike and
a headlight on your handlebars. Did you know Thirty-six states, plus the District of Columbia,
have mandatory helmet laws.