Bike Safety Tips For Kids

Biking is a great activity for kids; which is both fun and healthy. Unfortunately biking can also be dangerous without proper training and gear. The Nemours Foundation states that about 300,000 kids end up in emergency rooms each year due to bike accidents and according to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration more children ages 5 to 14 visit the emergency room for injuries due to bike riding than any other sport. To reduce these accidents it is important that you teach kids the importance of bicycle safety. Here is a list of some essential bike safety rules that you should discuss with children before they hop on their bike.

1.   Always wear a helmet. The helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment for bike riders. Make sure the helmet fits properly; it should feel snugly on your head and rest securely on your forehead. The straps should always be fastened.

2.  Check your bike before you ride. Make sure everything is working properly, check brakes, chains, tires, seat, etc.

3.  Make sure the bike is the right size for you; if you don’t feel comfortable on the bike you shouldn’t be riding it.

4.  Make Sure you wear the proper clothing, loose pants can get caught in the chain or wheel.

5.  When riding in a group always ride single file especially on roads.

6.  Always ride on the right side of the road whenever possible.

7.  Always be alert to your surroundings watch for cars pulling out of alleys and driveways.

8.  Use a basket to carry things, but make sure not to overload it

9.  Don’t give rides to friends, especially on the handlebars.

10. Ride slowly through gravel and sand or even get off your bike and walk   through hard to ride areas.

11. Don’t ride after dark.

12. Walk your bike in the crosswalk at busy intersections.

13. Know the proper signals for stopping and turning.

14. Follow all traffic signs. Bikes have to follow the same rules as cars.