We Are The Traffic!

Bike riding is a lot of fun, but did you know that a bicycle is a vehicle, not a toy? Cyclists who share public streets have rights and responsibilities like motorists do.

Many people experience a sense of freedom when they're biking. It's a fun way to exercise, is quicker than walking, doesn't require fuel so it doesn't pollute and is a great way to get to know your community. However, sharing the road with cars and trucks, being aware of pedestrians, and watching for bumps in the road can make a bicyclist feel like a road warrior!

One afternoon, I observed kids biking home from school. I was impressed that they carried heavy backpacks and most of them wore helmets. Some had difficulty getting drivers to notice them, and others rode on the sidewalk. I wondered what could be done to raise awareness for bike riders. I discovered Critical Mass, a grassroots movement that is reclaiming the streets by riding bikes in groups to promote bike rights and awareness. Their motto is, "We aren't blocking traffic. We are the traffic!" Critical Mass started in 1992 in San Francisco when bicycle commuters rode home together from work. Their rides now occur once a month and have taken place in North America, Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, and South America. See http://www.critical-mass.org/ for more information.

To get involved in biking in your community, check with your city government office, bike shops, bike cooperatives, or bike federations. Organize neighborhood bike rides, take a bike safety class at school, or enter a charity bike ride with your parents. By simply riding your bike, you may inspire others to do the same. If you live in the U.S., check out the safe route to school at http://www.walktoschool-usa.org/

Biking is popular, but unfortunately nearly one million kids are injured each year in bicycle-related accidents. To avoid injuries, check tires for proper inflation, make sure brakes are working, and that the bike chain is attached. Remember to always wear a bike helmet, and don't forget to enjoy the ride — it's your right!

Street Tips

• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Use your bell, make eye contact, and signal your intentions.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stop and check traffic before riding into a street.
• Ride on the right-hand side of the street.
• Be extra careful moving or turning left — motorists can't always judge a bicyclist's direction.
• Ride three feet from the curb to avoid loose gravel or leaves (you could lose control of your bike) and also to avoid the car door zone.
• Avoid riding at night. If you must, then have bike reflectors, lights, and reflective clothing.
  
  Sidewalk Tips
  
• Call your city government office to determine if riding on the sidewalk is permitted.
• Sidewalks are designed for pedestrians. Give them right-of-way.
• Give notice when you pass pedestrians on the left. Saying, "On your left," works well.
• Watch for cars that cross at alleys and driveways.
  
  By: Kort, Emily, Skipping Stones, Sep/Oct2006