National Bike Safety Month!

May is National Bike Safety Month. Here are 10 important bike safety tips from MetroWest Public Safety:

1. Wear a bike helmet that fits you and is properly adjusted. It could save your life in a crash.

2. Be visible. Wear bright clothing and make sure you have reflectors on the front and rear of your bike. A rear red flashing light makes it easier to be seen.

3. Check your bike to make sure the tires are properly inflated, the brakes are tight enough, and the chain is running smoothly.
4. Ride to the right of the road in the same direction as traffic. Go with the flow—not against it.
5. Keep at least one hand on the handlebars. If you need to carry something, put it in a bike carrier or backpack.
6. Watch out at intersections—about half of crashes occur there. Obey traffic signals and always look behind you for a break in traffic before making a turn.
7. When passing a pedestrian or another bike, warn them of your approach with a bell or shout (“on your left!”).
8. Don’t wear earbuds when you ride. You need to hear what’s going on around you.
9. Watch for hazards (glass, rocks, potholes) that can cause you to lose control of your bike.
10. When riding near parked cars, be aware of doors that could suddenly open. Try to ride about 4 feet away from parked cars to avoid being hit by a door.