Bicycle Safety Tips

Did you know that about 75% of all bicycle related deaths result from head injuries? You can prevent most serious head injuries by getting in the helmet-wearing habit.

The helmet should have a label that says it meets "ANSI" or "Snell" or "ASTM" safety standards. The helmet should cover the forehead. Riding a bike of the wrong size make it easier for you to lose control and be injured.

• Both feet should touch the ground when you are sitting on the seat with your hands on the handlebar.
• When straddling the center bar, you should be able to keep both feet flat on the ground with about one-inch between your crotch and the bar.
• If the bike has hand brakes, make sure you can comfortably hold the brakes and apply enough pressure to stop the bike.

Some rules for the road.

• Look in all directions before entering or crossing the street.
• Wear bright colored clothes or helmet or attach a florescent-colored flag on a flexible pole to your bike.
• If you ride on the street ride in the same direction as traffic and stay on the right side of the street near the curb.
• Watch out for parked cars that may pull out into traffic or open their car doors.
• Use hand signals

Bicyclist must obey the same rules of the road as automobile drivers.

Always lock you bike to prevent theft. Never just leave your bike on the front lawn when you go inside or away from the house.

Keep a description of the bicycle, including the serial number.

For more information about crime prevention call the Rockville City Police Department Community Services Officer 240-314-8922.