7
Night Riding and Poor Visibility
Riding at dawn, dusk, during poor visibility or night riding is extremely dangerous. Your reflectors are not a
substitute for the required bike lights. Motorists and pedestrians may not be able to see a bicyclist during poor
visibility conditions. Consult your local bike shop for night riding equipment if you choose to accept the risk of
riding during these conditions.
RIDING A BICYCLE IN LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS WITHOUT PROPER LIGHTING AND REFLECTORS ATTACHED TO
YOUR BIKE IMPAIRS YOUR ABILITY TO SEE AND BE SEEN BY OTHER MOTORIST OR PEDESTRIANS. THIS
GREATLY INCREASES THE CHANCE YOU WILL BE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT THAT COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH. USE A LIGHT ON THE FRONT AND REAR OF YOUR BIKE AND BE SURE ALL REFLECTORS
ARE IN PLACE BEFORE RIDING IN LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS.
Unsafe Riding
While not all accidents can be avoided the list below outlines a few examples of things that can decrease your
risk of serious injury or death.
- Pay attention and avoid distractions while riding
- Always maintain both hands on the handlebars
- Avoid bike stunts and/or aggressive riding
- When carrying gear make sure it is securely attached to your bike and/or rack
- Never strap or latch any item to your bike in an area not designed to carry gear
- Never carry a passenger while riding
- Avoid riding in mud, if possible, mud may cause loss of traction resulting in loss of control of your bike
CERTAIN TYPES OF RIDING SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE STRESS AND ABNORMAL WEAR AND TEAR ON YOUR
BIKE. THESE ARE JUST A FEW TYPES OF RIDING THAT CAN ADVERSELY AFFECT YOUR SAFTY AND LIFESPAN
OF YOUR BICYCLE AND COMPONENTS, SUCH AS COMPETITION OR STUNT RIDING, DOWNHILL
RACING/RIDING, or JUMPING YOUR BIKE.
Avoid Riding too Fast
Higher speeds create higher risks and greater forces in the event of a crash. At higher speeds, it is more likely
that wheels will slip, or that a small bump can create a significant impact to your frame or fork. Always keep
your bicycle under control. For children, the limit of speed for safe riding is much lower, so parents should
strictly enforce this rule.
