What is the Most Important Safety Rule in Cycling
What is the most important safety rule in cycling? I am pretty sure that the above question comes to your mind when on the road. That is because safety is the most important thing when riding a bike.
The answer to the above question lies in this article. All you need to do is to read through for more understanding. We will provide a thorough and well-thought-out response to help you when cycling.
What is the most important safety rule in cycling?
A bike is considered a vehicle in some countries and other parts of the world. When riding it, there are some safety rules and regulations to observe. However, the most important one involves wearing a helmet and observing, or following all the road rules and procedures.
The helmet helps protect the rider when cycling on a busy road. Accidents are bound to happen, especially by tipping off the bike or having a head-on collision. The head is a sensitive part of the human body and requires utmost care.
Observing all the road rules also helps the rider avoid getting into trouble when riding. If the speed limit is 10km/h, everyone should adhere to this, otherwise, you may end up hitting other vehicles ad road users. That won’t be pleasant, isn’t it?
What are the other safety rules for riding a bike?
Like any other type of vehicle, there are unwritten but recommended rules to govern the uses of a bike. They include the following:
Avoid unnecessary overtaking, especially on busy highways or when not in a hurry.
Do not overload the bike as it makes the control difficult and sometimes almost impossible.
Always wear a reflective jacket while on the road. It helps make the rider visible to other road users and avoid accidents.
Always drive on the recommended side of the road. In other regions or countries, the legal cycling side is the left-hand side. However, in some, it is on the right.
Maintain an appropriate distance between your bike and the vessel ahead. It helps avoid a collision, especially when the vehicle or a bike ahead makes an emergency stop.
Use the cycle tracks where available. Leave the main road for fast-moving objects such as vehicles and motorcycles.
Do not perform acrobatics on the road. You may end up falling off the bike and hitting the tarmac. It may also lead to a collision with other road users.
Remember to put on bright and visible attire while on the road. They are especially helpful at night when the visibility of many drivers and other road users is low.
Be alert at all times when on the road. There are all kinds of people on the road, and many of them do not like following the traffic rules. It helps a lot when you remain alert and avoid many problems like accidents or breaking the law.
Do not ride the bike while under the influence of alcohol as it will impair your vision and judgment on the road. Alcohol makes things that far away appear closer and in motion.
Do not ride a bike that has not been serviced. A bicycle not under maintenance is unroadworthy and is bound to cause accidents.
Factors to consider before and when riding a bike
Before riding your bike, you need to ensure that it achieves the minimum operating standards. They include the following:
Ensure the tires are inflated to recommended pressure levels. Do not exceed the Psi rating, as it will cause a lot of vibrations while on the road. On the other hand, inflating it below the required level will harm the tube and the rim, especially if you ride on bumpy roads.
Adjust the saddle or the seat to the proper height and lock it in place. Do not leave it unlocked because it will not be comfortable and healthy to ride it that way!
Ensure that the bike has either a horn or a bell. It should also have a rearview mirror to see other road users coming from behind. The bright headlight is also a thing to have on the bike, and without forgetting the red reflectors on the saddle. They help other riders and drivers see you ahead as you are on the road.
Ensure that all parts, especially the joints are performing optimally and that they are in excellent shape. It includes carrying out maintenance services like cleaning, greasing, tightening the bolts, and replacing faulty and worn-out parts.
Ensure you are visible while on the road. A bike is smaller than a car, and most drivers do not have perfect vision, especially at night. Where possible, ride your bike during the day, as this increases the chances of being seen at all times. Ensure you wear bright fluorescent or neon clothing so other road users can notice your presence easily. If riding at night is unavoidable, ensure you put on reflective clothing, and the bike should have flashing lights at both ends.
Understand the traffic rules and regulations to avoid getting into trouble with the law. Always ride on a single file and in the direction of the traffic to void collisions.
When turning to join other roads or overtaking, use hand signals for extra safety. Observe caution when on road intersections.
Do not hitch onto moving cars. When planning to enter traffic, look left, right, and left again. Also, look over your shoulder to ensure it is safe to join.
Conclusion
Riding a bike requires one to observe all the road morals and rules. However, the most important safety rule in cycling is wearing a helmet and following all the road rules and procedures.
Safety is key when cycling on the road. Always ensure you remain visible to avoid accidents and collisions.
Keep safe while on the road, and remember to use the appropriate signs and indications.
