Anyone can ride a bicycle, but most people do not learn about bicycle safety. According to the National Safety Council, preventable bicycle deaths increased by 37 percent from 2010 to 2019.
Houston is warm enough to ride bicycles year-round. It is a relatively bicycle-friendly area with plenty of infrastructure and trails for cyclists. However, encouraging cyclists to ride around the city means you need to know proper riding habits. Continue reading to learn how to minimize the chances of crashing your bicycle.
Invest in safety equipment
Before getting on a bike, you should purchase some rudimentary safety equipment. Helmets help prevent serious head injuries, but that is not all you need to consider. If you want to ride in low-visibility areas or during the night, wear reflective clothing. You can also put reflectors on your wheels and frame.
Take care of your bike
Maintenance is an overlooked factor of bicycle safety. If you do not know how to take care of your bike, periodically take it to a bike shop. However, it is not difficult to keep the pressure in your tires at optimal levels and your chain greased. Never go into a high-traffic area if you do not feel comfortable riding your bike.
Follow traffic laws
Cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. Before you ride on city streets, familiarize yourself with navigating traffic on your bike. Learn proper hand signals and ride with traffic, never against it.
Bicycle safety only requires a few preparations and basic knowledge of traffic laws. It is an accessible pastime that everyone can enjoy.