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                Safety Tips for Bicyclists
    

    
    
          Bicycles are the most vulnerable of all vehicles on the road. As a bicyclist riding in traffic or on the sidewalk, take extra precautions to protect yourself. Drivers on the road—especially those behind the wheel of a large truck or bus—may not see you. The tips below can help keep you riding safely.

**Wear Your Helmet**

Always wear a helmet when riding your bicycle. Bikes offer no protection in case of a crash and wearing your helmet may save your life if you are hit by or run into a large truck or bus. Remember, riding into a truck is equivalent to hitting a steel wall.

**Be Aware of Traffic**

Always be aware of the traffic around you, especially when riding near large trucks and buses. Trucks and buses make wide right turns; avoid riding between a truck or bus and the curb. Never assume that all drivers see your hand signals or will yield for you. Always ride defensively.

**Check Your Brakes**

Always check your brakes before riding. A truck requires additional time and space to stop so it is important that you are prepared to stop quickly if necessary. Never assume that a truck will be able to stop fast enough if you are in the way.

**Ride with Traffic**

Always ride your bicycle with the flow of traffic. Riding against traffic may cause you to miss traffic control devices, such as traffic signs and stop lights. Be especially careful when riding near or around trucks and buses. Watch for truck and bus signals because the driver may not see you or be able to stop quickly enough in an emergency situation. Always be prepared in case the truck's signals do not work or the driver does not use them.

**Be Aware of the No-Zone (Blind Spots)**

Do not ride too closely to a large truck. Large trucks have no-zones—or blind spots—in the front, back, and sides, which make it difficult for the drivers to see bicyclists around them.
      
    
          Last updated: Thursday, November 12, 2015 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

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