Keep Your Kids Safe This Summer With These 10 Bike Safety Tips

The warmer weather means that kids are itching to head outside and jump on their bikes. But before you let them head out the door, make sure you take every precaution to keep them safe. By following the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) new bicycle safety tips, you can keep your family protected from injury in a Pennsylvania bike accident.

1. Always Protect Your Head and Wear a Helmet. Wearing your helmet is the best way to avoid suffering from a head injury while riding your bike.
2. See and Be Seen. It's important for you to see the cars around you and for them to see you. Always wear brightly colored clothing to help make you more visible to the people driving by.
3. Be Cautious When Riding at Night. It's much more difficult for drivers to see you at night. If you decide to ride after it gets dark make sure you have a front light on your bike and a red reflector on the back.
4. Stay Alert. Many things can show up in your path as you're riding down the road. Look out for things that would cause you to lose control like cracks, rocks and holes.
5. Follow the Flow of Traffic. When riding your bike in the road, always make sure to follow the flow of traffic. This assures you can see the cars and that drivers can see you.
6. Check for Changes in Traffic. Be alert to traffic changes when riding. Always look both ways and check for traffic when entering an intersection.
7. Obey the Rules of the Road. Bicycles are considered vehicles and therefore must obey the same rules as cars and trucks. Always signal when you want to turn and obey the traffic lights.
8. Assure Bicycle Readiness. Before you go out riding, always check to make sure your bicycle is safe and working properly. This includes checking the tires for proper inflation and that the handle bars are securely fastened.
9. Brake Check. Your brakes on your bike are one of the most important pieces to keeping you safe. Check to make sure they are working properly and will be able to stop your bike during any road condition.
10. Read the Manual. The manufacturer of your bike included a manual to help you understand how everything works on your bike. It's important to familiarize yourself with it before you go out riding.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a Bucks County bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Pennsylvania accident attorney today at 1-800-860-5801 to schedule your free injury case consultation.