Health & Wellness

Summer Safety: Bike smart to prevent injury

Cycling is a great summer activity, whether you're enjoying a casual ride, cross-country expedition or some fast-paced downhill action. But bike riding also comes with the risk of injury. Stay safe on your bike this summer by following the safety tips outlined below.

Check your gear

Conduct the following checks before cycling:

⛑ Helmet Check: Your helmet should sit level on your head (not tilted back) with the front edge one inch or less above your eyebrows. It should fit snugly and meet safety standards.

🛑 Brake Check: Make sure the brakes on your bicycle are adjusted properly, with the brake pads and cables in good condition.

👕 Outfit Check: Always bike in close-toed shoes and wear proper socks, gloves, and padding. Moisture-wicking clothing on warm days is a good choice. Don’t wear anything that could get stuck in your bike chain or gears (baggy pants, backpack straps, shoelaces).

Know the rules of the road

When biking, it’s important to always follow the rules of the road. Bike in the same direction as traffic, stay on the right side of the road, and use designated bike lanes when possible. Be sure to use hand signals and shoulder check before making any turns.

Jenny Green, a team leader with Interior Health's Healthy Communities team, says that motorists also have a role to play in cyclist safety.

"Keeping cyclists safe starts with a safe environment," she says. "Reduce your speed while driving. In any situation where motor vehicles share the road with vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians, drivers should keep their speed to 30 km/h. A pedestrian struck by a car traveling at 50 km/h is five times more likely to be killed than a pedestrian struck at 30 km/h."

A healthy community promotes safe and accessible options for being active for all ages and abilities while enhancing active transportation opportunities for walking and cycling.

Learn more about road safety and cycling

Be alert & visible while cycling

As you're cycling, make sure that you:

🚨 Use reflectors, headlamps, and bright clothing so others can see you

🙅🏾 Avoid using headphones as the music might distract you

👀 Continuously scan the trail or road ahead

🚶🏼  Always walk your bike through a crosswalk

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