Bicycle Safety

Survive Outdoors will not address safety as relating to rules of the road. There are always differences from state to state. Please check with your local DMV where you can pick up a copy of Rules of the Road for Bicyclists.

Basic Safety Check List

1. Make sure air is adequate for your tires and on long trips it’s highly advised to bring a small pump.  Put one in your backpack or attach to your bike.
2. Make sure bike is oiled and all screws and bolts tightened down as well as handlebars.
3. Make sure all spokes are intact.
4. Make sure seat is comfortable and set at the right height for you.
5. When biking the back country or riding trails, make sure you have a local map. There are many excellent phone apps for local areas. Water supply is crucial and a small medical kit in your backpack is prudent.
6. Tuck your shoelaces in your shoes.
7. Bright clothing, reflectors and front/rear lights are obviously very helpful.

Children and adults should wear helmets. In many states, this is required by law. We also advise the use of elbow pads and knee pads; especially in rough terrain.

Bicycle Injury Statistics

• Around 1:8 bicycle accidents result in brain injuries.
• Of 540,000 bicycle accidents seen in the Emergency Dept, 67,000 of those are head injuries.
• Bicycle deaths have increased since 2010. (Approximately a 38% increase) Some of this is due to more people biking.
• In 2018 there were 857 deaths from bicycles.