May is National Bike Month and Lexington Emergency Management wants to remind everyone the importance of bike safety as summer approaches. Biking is a wonderful way to stay active during the summer months. Here in Kentucky, we have many bike trails across the region for all types of bikers.
When riding a bike, you should always wear a helmet to prevent head and brain injuries. The American Associations of Neurological Surgeons says the number one activity for head related injuries come from biking without a helmet. Helmets approved by The Snell Memorial Foundation, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the American Society for Testing Materials are your safest choice. Your helmet should not be too loose or too tight for best usage.
Before riding, make sure your bike is in good condition. Flat tires, loose handles, or faulty brakes can lead to serious injuries. Also, make sure you are visible to other drivers when riding. With long days and nights ahead, it is easy to lose track of time and stay out riding late. Try to avoid riding at night if at all possible, but if you can’t, be sure to wear bright colored clothing so other drivers can see you. Add reflectors to the front, back, and spokes to increase visibility.
If you choose to ride in the streets, obey traffic laws within your area and know appropriate hand signals to assure other drivers around you. Look both ways before crossing the street or a busy intersection and make sure you can be seen by other drivers before crossing.
Stay alert, be aware, and bike safe Kentucky!
Some content courtesy: National Safety Council, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, National Highway Safety Association
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