Community Corner

Bicyclists Reminded to Proceed with Caution this Season

There are a number of simple safety steps you can take to ensure you and your family are safe on the roads, sidewalks and trails this summer.

Now that summer weather is finally upon us, more bicyclists will be out on the streets, sidewalks and trails to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

"Residents should remember that everyone — bicyclists and motorists — need to be aware of each other on the roads and what is going on around you in order to remain safer," said Buffalo Grove police traffic Sgt. Mike Rodriguez. 

The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is reminding residents that there are a number of different ways you can make sure your biking experience isn’t disrupted by tragedy

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Secure Your Equipment

Bicycle safety includes making sure your equipment and your bike itself is in proper working order. This includes installing on the front, rear and sides reflectors that are visible from at least 100 feet. Check your brakes, gears, seat and handlebars to ensure all are attached securely.

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Obey Traffic Laws and Signals

Bicyclists are expected to obey the same laws that apply to motorists on the roads. Ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic, as well as follow directions from traffic lights, signals and signs that cars also obey.

Riding Your Bicycle on Sidewalks

Pedestrian signals also must be obeyed by bicyclists when riding on a sidewalk or crosswalk. An alert signal should be given when you are approaching pedestrians from behind before you pass them. Also, yield to pedestrians on crosswalks, because they have the right of way.

Center Lines, Turning Arrows and Traveling with Car Traffic

Crossing a double yellow center stripe — whether on a bicycle or in a car — is prohibited, unless you are turning into or out of an alley or driveway. Bicyclists should ride on the right side of major roads with car traffic, unless making a left turn or when passing another bicyclist. You should make other bicyclists aware of your presence before passing and yield to vehicle traffic. Bicyclists also should follow the directions of arrows painted on traffic lanes.

Arm Signals and Turning

When traveling alongside vehicles, using arm signals is required by law. When preparing to turn or stop, there are four arm signs bicyclists should use:

  • Left turn — extend your left arm straight out from your left side
  • Right turn — extend your right arm straight out from your right side OR extend your left arm to the elbow and raise your forearm in the air
  • Stop signal — extend your left arm to the elbow and point your forearm to the ground

Right turns should be made from the right lane and as close to the right curb or edge of the roadway as possible. Left turns can be made as a motorist would make from the left turning lane. Arm turning signals also should be used.

Approaching and Stopping Near a School Bus

Just as vehicles must stop when a school bus is flashing its lights and its stop arm is out, so should bicyclists. Arm-stop signals also should be used. 

Other tips include riding single file, keeping both hands on the handlebars and using a backpack or bike carrier to hold items such as books or food.

Wearing a helmet is also strongly suggested to safeguard against head injuries if you have an accident.

"Wearing a helmet is huge for me personally; I was involved in a significant bike crash where I landed on my head and my helmet saved me from serious injuries," Rodriguez said.

For more information on bicycle rules of the road, visit the Secretary of State website.


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