Getting A Handle On Bike Safety [Back-to-School]
All articles in the Back-to-School section can also be found in a printed edition of District’s fall Back-to-School guide. Copies can be found in our offices at the Student Media Center located within Dyson Lab, 231 W. Boundary St.
Savannah is a bike-friendly city. However, you must remember that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities to the road as people operating motor vehicles and are expected to obey all traffic laws. That means cyclists must obey traffic lights and stop signs, signal intentions to turn left or right using hand signals, never ride on the sidewalk and always ride in the same direction as traffic.
To ensure your safety and the safety of others, always follow the four Be’s:
Be visible:
– Don’t ride in the gutter
– Wear brightly colored clothing,
– Get a headlight and taillight
Be predictable:
– Operate by the same rules that govern motor vehicles
Be alert:
– Pay attention
– If your phone rings, don’t answer
– Don’t txt
Be polite:
– The more people you anger, the more likely you are to be treated disrespectfully at some point. Mutual respect is critical not only to safe cycling, but it is also the foundation of a happy community.
(Courtesy of Frank McIntosh, executive director of the Savannah Bicycle Campaign.)
