
Bicycles are supposed to share the road with other "vehicles" on California’s streets and roadways.
That means bicyclists must obey the rules of the
road like drivers of any other vehicle and must be treated as equal users by
all other vehicles.
The best way to avoid collisions is to be
prepared and be aware of other vehicles around you. Avoid common bicyclist
errors and common motorist errors committed around bicyclists.
Here are some safety tips for bicycling in
California, including Palm Springs and the greater Palm Springs area:
1. Obey
traffic signs and signals. Bicyclists must follow the rules of the road like
other vehicles.
2. Never
ride against traffic. Motorists aren't looking for bicyclists riding on the
wrong side of the road. State law and common sense require that bicyclists
drive like other vehicles.
3. Follow
lane markings. Don't turn left from the right lane. Don't go straight in a lane
marked “right-turn only.”
4. Don’t
pass on the right. Motorists may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the
right.
5. Scan
the road behind you. Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your
balance or swerving. The Palm Springs Guru and some other bicyclists use
rear-view mirrors.
6. Keep
both hands ready to brake. You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow
extra distance for stopping in the rain, since brakes are less efficient when
wet.
7. Always
wear a helmet. Never wear any kind of earbud while riding a bicycle.
8. Dress
for the weather. When it rains wear a poncho or waterproof suit. Dress in
layers so you can adjust to temperature changes. Wear bright colored clothing.
9. Use
hand signals. Hand signals tell motorists and pedestrians what you intend to
do. Signal as a matter of law, of courtesy, and of self-protection.
10. Ride in the middle of the lane in slower
traffic. Get in the middle of the lane at busy intersections and whenever you
are moving at the same speed as traffic.
11. Choose
the best way to turn left. There are two choices: (1) Like an auto: signal to
move into the left turn lane and then turn left. (2) Like a pedestrian: ride
straight to the far side crosswalk. Walk your bicycle across.
12. Make
eye contact with drivers. Assume that other drivers don't see you until you are
sure that they do. Eye contact is important with any driver which might pose a
threat to your safety.
13. Look
out for road hazards. Watch out for parallel-slat sewer grates, gravel, ice, sand
or debris. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
14. Use lights at night. The Palm Springs Guru
recommends a white headlight (visible from at least 500 feet ahead) and a rear
reflector or taillight (visible up to 300 feet from behind).
15. Keep your bicycle in good repair. Adjust your
bicycle to fit you and keep it working properly. Check brakes and tires
regularly. Routine maintenance is simple and you can learn to do it yourself.
The Palm Springs Guru asks you, the people who
live here and our visitors from around the world to Ride Smart, Ride Safe, Ride
Strong.
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