Every year more than 500,000 people in the United States are treated in emergency departments due to bicycle-related injuries. On average, children 15 years and younger account for roughly 59 percent of all bicycle-related injuries, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “I saw it all the time as an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician),” says Brian Nettina, a firefighter of more than three years. “So many accidents and injuries could be prevented with just that small extra step.” Of course, not every injury can be avoided on busy East Orlando streets or even on your local community sidewalks; however, there are several steps that can be taken to help prevent bicycle-related injuries for kids of all ages:

• Always Wear a Helmet. It seems obvious, but one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury is to always wear a helmet while riding your bike. If riding with your kids, be especially sure to wear one as well because if you don’t, they won’t.
• Obey All Traffic Laws. A bicyclist has the same rights and duties on the road as drivers of other vehicles. You must obey traffic lights, stop signs, one-way streets and all other traffic laws.
• Use Hand Signals When Turning. Using the proper signals will let others around you know that you will be making a sudden movement. Extend your left hand away from your body at a 90-degree angle to signal for a left turn. For a right turn, use the same motion but bend your arm upward at the elbow to signal for a right turn.
• Keep Your Brakes Adjusted. You never know when you will have to make a sudden stop. Ensuring that your brakes are adjusted properly will allow you to stop short of any accidents. You should skid on clean, dry pavement when adjusted properly.
• Use a Headlight When Riding At Dusk or Night. Many bikes do not come standard with any type of lighting. If you plan to ride in the evening or at night, purchase a headlight and mount it to the front of your bike - standard reflectors are not enough.
• Wear Proper Clothes. Make sure that your pants are not excessively baggy when riding - they may get caught in the chain and cause you to fall. Also, be sure that your shoes are tied tightly before starting your ride and always wear bright clothing if possible. You will stand out from the crowd and be noticeable to motorists no matter the time of day.
• Keep At Least One Hand on the Handlebars. In order to maintain maximum control of your bike, you should keep your hands on the handlebars at all times. Riding with no hands significantly reduces your level of control and decreases reaction time.

Article by Corey Gehrold