PRACTICE BICYCLE SAFETY FOR A FUN AND CAREFREE SUMMER
As summer gets into full swing, it’s important for parents to remember that a bicycle is a vehicle, not a toy. Teaching children a few basic safety rules will go a long way toward protecting them when they ride.
“Riding a bike is fun, but it can also be dangerous,” says Allstate Agent KEVIN GWOZDZ. “Children learn by example, so it’s important that parents practice good bike safety when they ride, too.”
To help children have a safe and enjoyable summer of bike riding, here are some tips from the Allstate Insurance Company:
•Use your head – wear a helmet.
Head injuries account for 75 percent of all bicycle-related deaths. Most serious head injuries can be prevented by wearing a bike helmet.
•Look in all directions before entering or crossing a street.
Most crashes between and car and a bicycle happen at intersections or driveways. Riders should walk their bicycles across busy streets. It’s also important to watch out for parked cars. They could pull out into traffic or open their doors in a bike rider’s path.
•Ride in the same direction as traffic.
Riders should stay on the right side of the street, near the curb.
•Be visible.
To make themselves more visible, children should wear brightly colored clothing and helmets and should attach a fluorescent-colored flag to a flexible pole on their bike. It’s also wise not to ride at night.
•Make sure your bike is the right size.
A bike that’s too big or too small is harder for a child to control. Be especially wary of bikes too big for a child to reach the pedals and/or brakes properly.
•Protect your bike when you leave it.
The best protection against bicycle theft is a chain and lock.
For more information on this and other safety topics, contact KEVIN GWOZDZ at 436-2866.
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