Riding a bike is often a big milestone for a child. It opens up a world of freedom, easy transportation and fun. Unfortunately riding a bike can also be dangerous. A few simple tips can ensure a safe ride.
Top Tips
- Wear a properly-fitted helmet for every ride. Make sure your child can see and that the helmet is snug and comfortable. The straps should form a “V” under your ears when buckled and the helmet should hug your head when you open your mouth wide.
- Ride on the sidewalk when you can. If not, ride in the same direction as traffic as far on the right-hand side as possible. Be sure and model this behavior for your children many times before trusting them to ride on their own. Every child is different but it can difficult for a child to judge the speed and distance of cars before the age of 10.
- Use hand signals and follow the rules of the road. Be predictable by making sure you ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between cars.
- Wear bright colors and use lights, especially when riding at night and in the morning. Reflectors on your clothes and bike will help you be seen. Arizona law requires use of a white headlight at night. The purpose is not usually for the biker to see where they are going but for others to see them.
- Ride with your children. Stick together until you are comfortable that your kids are ready to ride on their own.
