The most important rule, according to the report, is for bicyclists to be aware that they are responsible to follow traffic rules just like cars. Chapel Hill Patrol Officer Scott Taylor said many bicycle accidents could be prevented . The main problem we see besides not wearing helmets and having lights at night is that bicyclists do not follow road rules. Some tips Pein's report offered for motorists include always looking out for bikes, especially around campus, making room for bikes and sharing the road with bicyclists, who are legal travelers on streets. Additional hints for bike safety include wearing loud clothing and watching out for road hazards that may not affect cars but can be dangerous for bikes, such as potholes, sand or rough gravel.
Bike safety is especially important on campus.
Betsy Alley, a sophomore from Charlotte, said she feels bikers are not aware that cars are also allowed on campus. Some can be really careless and not pay attention when they're crossing streets. They just don't look at the car and assume it will stop. Make sure the bicycle is the correct size for you, is in the proper working order and that you are competent with all the operating controls. Be well outfitted.