Bike Safety

Bicycling should be a part of everyone's life; it's fun, healthy, and good for the environment.  Children represent the largest population of bicyclists in the United States.

Due to heavy traffic, unsafe neighborhoods, and lack of emphasis on physical activity, bicycling has decreased. In 1998 children spent 15% less time bicycling than they did eight years ago. Children who don't practice physical activity tend to continue this trend throughout adulthood.

Safe Riding Tips

Before riding, individuals should use all precautions to ensure a safe riding experience.

First, inspect your bike to make sure all parts are in place and working properly.

Next, make sure you have on the proper gear including, a properly fitted helmet.  Bicycle helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of head and brain injury as much as 85 to 88 percent, so children and adults should wear a bicycle helmet every time they ride a bicycle.  Click Here for instructions on how to fit a helmet.

Finally, ensure you can "See and Be Seen."  Whether it's day or night, wearing proper neon and fluorescent lighting on your bicycle will caution motorists.  Wearing reflective clothing is an additional way to ensure you'll be seen.

Bicycles are Vehicles

• Bicycles have a right to public roadway unless specifically prohibited
• Unless you are under 10 years of age, riding on the sidewalk may not be the safest place to ride
• A cyclist should ride in the same direction as motorized traffic
• When riding against traffic, motorist cannot see and obey traffic signs and signals which increases the risk of crashes
• The State of Florida recognizes a bicycle as a vehicle. Therefore cyclists must obey the same traffic signs and signals as motorists.
• It's important for cyclists to make themselves visible.  According to Florida state law, you are required to place a white front light and have at least a rear red reflector light.

Helpful links:

• Bike Helmet Fact Brochure
• Website for Biking in your Community