Always ride with your hands on the handlebars.

Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars. Control your bicycle.

If you are riding with a group of people, make sure that you stay on the right side of the road or trail in a single file line.

Use a bicycle bell to alert pedestrians that you are passing (if you are riding on a trail or sidewalk).

Obey traffic signs and signals. A bike is a vehicle too!

Ride in the same direction as other vehicles. Stick to the right hand side of the road as much as possible.

Always use proper hand signals when turning and stopping.

Always wear a helmet that complies ith Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.

Make sure your helmet fits your head properly. Y straps should come right below your ears, chin strap should be snug, and helmet should not wiggle when you shake your head.

Use your bike for short trips.

Cycling as little as 20 miles a week can cut your risk of heart disease by more than half.

When riding at dusk or in the dark, be sure to use reflectors, a headlight, and a taillight.

Keep your bike well-maintained. Check tires, wheels, lights, brakes, and handlebars before each ride.

Look both ways for oncoming vehicles before turning or crossing a street. Go only when it is clear.

Keep a lookout for children, car doors opening unexpectedly, and cars exiting driveways.

Almost 70 percent of all bicycle fatalities involve head injuries, yet only about one in four bike riders wear helmets.