Do you want to learn How to Stay Safe While Commuting by Bike? How to safely commute by bike? What do I need to know before commuting on a bike? What are commuting safety tips? What is the safest way to ride a bike?
Commuting by bike or an ebike is a great way to stay fit, save money on transportation, and also reduce your carbon footprint all at the same time.
However, it's important to remember that cycling on the road can be dangerous. Bikes do not stand a chance against a car if an accident were to occur. So, you must take the proper safety precautions to be safe at all times.
It does not matter if you are a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there are several steps you can take to stay safe while commuting by bike.
We do not control how other vehicles operate on the road. So, you must be diligent at all times.
From wearing a helmet to using lights and reflectors, these tips can help you avoid accidents and arrive at your destination safely.
This is why Rize Bikes decided to write this article for you. We will explain 7 great tips on how to stay safe while riding your ebike such as our mid drive ebikes or retro electric bikes.
7 Essential Tips for Confident Bike Commuting
1. Wear a helmet
One of the most important safety tips when commuting by bike is to wear a helmet.
Even though this does not guarantee you will not be hurt, a helmet will greatly reduce the risk of head injury in the event of an accident.
Just think about it… if you were to fall down off your e-bike, not wearing a helmet means that your skull will meet the concrete road.
It is important to choose a helmet that is well-fitted and meets safety standards.
Look for a helmet that has a snug fit and sits level on your head, with the chin strap securely fastened.
When purchasing a helmet, look for one that is certified by safety standards organizations. Keep in mind that helmets do have an expiration date. This is because they lose strength over time and may not be as effective.
Even if you are only commuting a short distance, it is always a good idea to wear a helmet out of habit.
2. Use lights and reflectors
Using lights and reflectors is another important safety tip when commuting by bike.
This helps you to be seen by other road users, especially when riding in low-light conditions or at night.
When riding in low-light conditions, it is important to use a front light and rear light. These lights help other road users see you from a distance, and also help you see where you are going.
Reflectors on your bike and clothing can also help increase your visibility.
Make sure you turn on your lights and put on reflective clothing before you start riding. And remember to replace batteries or charge lights regularly to ensure they are always working properly.
However, we always recommend staying indoors if there is bad weather. Don’t risk getting hurt!
3. Use hand signals
Using hand signals is an important way to communicate with other road users when commuting by bike.
Hand signals help indicate your intention to turn, change lanes, or stop, making your movements more predictable and reducing the risk of collisions.
To signal a left turn, extend your left arm out to the side.
To signal a right turn, extend your right arm out to the side. To signal a stop, extend your left arm down with your palm facing backward.
Practice these signals at home until they become second nature. Always use them when riding to ensure safety.
4. Follow traffic laws
Following traffic laws is crucial when commuting by bike. Not needing a license to cycle a bike does not mean you do not obey the laws of the road.
This means stopping at stop signs and traffic lights, riding with the flow of traffic, and obeying speed limits.
Following these rules helps you stay predictable and reduces the risk of accidents.
It is important to remember that bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow the same rules of the road as other vehicles.
This means riding in the correct direction, stopping at stop signs, and using hand signals when turning.
If you are not sure of traffic laws, you should familiarize yourself with them before you start riding.
Also, just because it’s your right of way, you should still look left and right before crossing any street. This is more important for ebike users because these bicycles can go really fast.
The last thing you want to happen is to have a collision between another bike user or pedestrian even if you have the right of way.
5. Wear reflective clothing
Wearing reflective clothing is another important way to increase your visibility when commuting by bike.
Bright or reflective clothing can help other road users see you from a distance, especially in low-light conditions or at night.
Reflective vests, jackets, and bands are all good options for increasing your visibility. And remember, the more visible you are, the safer you will be.
A good tip to stay visible is to wear a bright toque. This almost guarantees that people will see you on the road.
6. Stay alert
Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is crucial when commuting by bike. This means keeping an eye out for hazards such as potholes, debris, and other road users.
It is also important to avoid distractions when riding, such as listening to music or using your phone.
How would you be able to hear from oncoming traffic if you have headphones on?
These distractions can really take your attention away from the road and increase your risk of accidents.
If you are commuting in a busy area, it is also helpful to use a mirror or take a defensive riding course to help you stay aware of your surroundings.
Also, consider installing a Bike GPS Tracker product on your expensive ebike. The last thing you want to happen is having a robber steal your bike!
7. Use bike lanes or dedicated paths
Using bike lanes or dedicated paths is another important way to stay safe when commuting by bike.
These lanes and paths are designed specifically for cyclists and can help you avoid conflicts with motor vehicles.
If this option is not available, ride on the right-hand side of the road, and be aware of your surroundings. It is important to ride in a straight line, and not weave in and out of traffic.
When riding on roads with heavy traffic, it may be helpful to take a more direct route to your destination.
This can help you avoid areas with high traffic volumes, and reduce your risk of accidents.
In some cases, you may also need to use public transportation to get to your destination.
So, make sure you know how to load your bikes on and off the TransLink bus (if you live in the Greater Vancouver area).
Final Thoughts on How to Stay Safe While Commuting by Bike
Commuting by bike can be a fun and healthy way to get to work or school, but it is important to take safety precautions to avoid accidents.
By following these seven tips, you can greatly reduce your risk of injury or accidents while riding.
Remember to always wear a helmet, use lights and reflectors, use hand signals, follow traffic laws, wear reflective clothing, stay alert, and use bike lanes or dedicated paths whenever possible.
And always remember this: The more visible and predictable you are, the safer you will be on the road.
So, take these safety tips seriously and make them a part of your daily commuting routine!
Have you been thinking of buying an ebike of your own? Check out our selection of electric bikes at our store today. We even have the option for you to test ride our bikes if you live in the Vancouver area in Canada.
