Before deciding to commute by bicycle, learn your state and local laws and basic safety rules. Then consider how far you will be traveling, how much motor vehicle traffic will be traveling on the roads at the same time, and how many hills you will have to climb. Choose a route with less traffic or better accommodations for bicyclists - such as bike lanes, wider lanes, or shared-use paths - to make the ride or walk more pleasant. Carry a map or plan an alternate route in case you need to make a detour. Learn how to gear down to “spin” and make the hills easier to climb.
Commuting by bicycle or walking helps fight pollution and is a great way to keep fit and increase stamina.
Most car and bike collisions occur when turning at intersections. Watch for cars turning both left and right at intersections and driveways.
Fatal crashes peak in the evening, often with alcohol as a contributing factor. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.)
Since commuters are often traveling at dawn and dusk, it is important to be prepared for twilight conditions. Increase visibility by using lights and wearing reflective or light colored clothes.
Many state require bicyclists to use white front light and red rear lights. Even if not required by law, it’s the smart thing to do. Use lights that can be seen at a minimum distance of 500 feet. A 10-watt halogen or 1-watt LED will meet this minimum. The more light the better.
Clothing made of reflective material is best. Yellow and lime green are somewhat visible. Red is NOT a good color for evening riding since it looks black in the fading light.
Watch for uneven pavement and grooves that could catch a wheel. Maintain control of your bicycle. Rise up from your saddle and bend your arms and legs so your body acts like a shock absorber. If the tracks cross the road at a sharp angle, change course to cross them at a right angle.
Use the striped-off bike lanes that separate bicyclists from other traffic. Beware: Motorists should not cross the solid white line but when the line is dashed, motorists turning right can enter the lane and block bicyclists from passing them on the right.
So get ready and get going. The health benefits of riding are too good to pass up. They include:
Need more encouragement? Find a friend and bike to work with a buddy. Ask in at your local area bicycle club. Groups like the Washington Area Bicycling Association have mentor programs to help new bicycle commuters.