Everyone knows that it is important to save the planet with eco-conscious actions. Though this does not mean that you have to prioritize the environment over your health. Practicing biking safety is important any time you decide to hop on a bike. Biking smart isn’t hard, though it does involve attentiveness and prevention techniques in order to position yourself in the best possible situation. Here’s some top tips,

1. Wear a helmet! Helmets do not only protect yourself from your own falls or wipeouts, but they will cushion your head in the event of accidents or collisions with other cyclists or vehicles. Make sure your helmet fits properly or it will be less effective. Check out some local Laramie bike shops to get fitted: https://allterrainsports.com/ or https://www.pedalhouse.com/

2. Follow the rules of the road! All bicyclists are required to follow the rules of the road just like any other vehicle. While you will most likely be on the side of the road in Laramie, when nearing intersections, you should signal to take the lane. This also means that you should not be biking on cross walks as if you have pedestrian right-of-way.

3. Use signals! Hand signals are extremely important when attempting switch directions on the road. Think of them as your own form of brake lights, blinkers, and warning signals. Here is a comprehensive list of the most useful signals: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/8009-handsignals.pdf

4. Wear the right gear! You need to be visible, do not try and blend in. This means that bright or fluorescent clothing is best suited for increased visibility. Riding during the day is highly recommended so try and check when the sunsets and time accordingly.

5. Check your equipment! Tires inflated? Check. Reflectors on the rear, front, pedals, and spokes? Check. Gears greased and brakes working? Check. The seat is adjusted to the proper height and locked in place? Check. Then you are good to go!

Safety first! Now that you have read some the major safety tips when it comes to riding on the road, go out there and have some fun. The farmers market has a lot of bike racks in place to encourage the amount of cyclists in attendance. If you are worried about needing a place to put your stuff check out the Pedal House, All Terrain Sports, or Atmosphere Mountain Works for some bike bags. Biking to the Farmer’s Market also has one major benefit, no need to find a parking spot! All you need is a bike lock and you are all set.

Want to learn about the benefits of biking from an environmental standpoint? Check out my latest article detailing a comparison between carbon emissions and biking.

References:

IM Template FL2. 2022. 4 Statistics that show how helmets save motorcyclist lives. [online] Available at: <https://www.padillalawgroup.com/blog/2021/06/4-statistics-that-show-how-helmets-save-motorcyclist-lives/#:~:text=%204%20Statistics%20that%20show%20how%20helmets%20save,injuries.%20When%20it%20comes%20to%20enjoying...%20More%20?msclkid=2f403de9c0e011eca6c6266da18384c7> [Accessed 21 April 2022].

Nsc.org. 2022. Bike Safety - National Safety Council. [online] Available at: <https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/bicycles> [Accessed 21 April 2022].