[vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When we are on the road, being safe is very important. We all have loved ones who wait for us to reach home safely. Whether you are a child or an adult, the road can be dangerous if you are not alert. While the roads are already criticised for the number of accidents that take place every day around the world, it becomes even more dangerous when you or your child is riding a bicycle. All other vehicles on the road are more powerful so it is important that you and your child follow safety guidelines. So, here are some safety guidelines for you and your kids:
1. Protect Your Head
Wear a well-fitted helmet to protect your head. The head is prone to injuries during an accident, and injuries to the head often involve the brain. This can be fatal, so wearing a helmet is always wise when riding a bicycle.
2. Stay Visible
When you are biking in areas of low visibility, or during the dark, it is important that you make yourself visible to other drivers. Use lights to make sure people can see you and do not run into you.
3. Signal
Signal in all stops, turns and obstacles using your hands and when needed, your voice. This is helpful especially when there are distracted drivers on the road. In addition to this, communicating your intentions to other drivers makes it easy for them to steer clear of your path.
4. Avoid Road Hazards
Always look out for obstacles on the road, holes, gravels and broken glass can cause you to lose balance and meet with an accident. Avoid this by staying alert so that you can bike without getting injured. If you are riding with friends, then make sure that they are made aware of the hazard as well. You can do so by yelling out or using hand signals.
5. Don’t Get Distracted
Distractions often lead to road accidents. Avoid all types of distractions like listening to music, or talking on the phone. You can harm others and get injured yourself if you are distracted. You may know the roads that you are biking on like the back of your hand, but the traffic is always unpredictable so avoid distractions.
6. Check your equipment
Before you go on a ride, check for the brakes and make sure the tires are inflated. This check helps you go on a bike ride without worries. If you think something is amiss then it is better to put it right, so that your bike functions properly.
7. Follow the traffic rules
Always bike in the direction of the traffic and follow the road rules of the area. Do not weave in and out of traffic. Drivers may not be ready for such behaviour and there is a possibility that you may end up in a crash. Riding predictably makes it safer for you and all other drivers on the road.
8. Yield to the Traffic when Necessary
It is always better for you to slow down and look when you are coming from a smaller road like a bike pathway or a sidewalk before you move to a larger road. Always check for pedestrians as well who have entered the crosswalk.
Conclusion
If you teach your kids to follow these simple tips of safety, it will be easier for them and you too to go biking. Your family will also have less to worry about if you and your kids are safe bike rider. While the roads are unpredictable, your safety steps go a long way in saving you from the adversities of riding a bicycle on the road.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]
