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Common Injuries

While cycling is generally safe, common injuries include bruises and scrapes. More serious injuries can occur, such as muscle strains, sprains, and fractures, with collarbones and wrists being the most frequently broken. Falls, particularly when landing on an outstretched hand, are common. More severe incidents, such as flipping over handlebars or collisions with vehicles, can lead to head injuries or, in rare cases, fatalities.

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In 2000, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported over 400,000 bicycle-related injuries in children requiring emergency room treatment, with about 17 out of every 1,000 riders needing hospital care.

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Safety Hand Signals

• Left Turn: Extend left arm straight out.
• Right Turn: Extend right arm straight out or bend left arm at a 90-degree angle, with the hand pointing up.
• Stop: Bend left arm at a 90-degree angle, with the hand pointing down.

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Recommendations for Safe Biking

• Wear a Helmet: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that emergency rooms treat 26,000 bike-related traumatic brain injuries in children annually. Both parents and children should wear helmets as a safety measure. Learn More
• Obey Traffic Laws: When biking on public roads, you are considered a vehicle. Ride on the right side of the road with traffic, use hand signals for turns and stops, and obey all stop signs and traffic lights. Always look both ways before entering streets or intersections.
• Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers might not see you. Keep an eye out for potential hazards like fallen branches or potholes.
• Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Opt for routes with less traffic to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as headphones or phone use, as these can prevent you from hearing important warnings like horns or sirens.
• Night Safety: Wear reflective clothing and use bike lights or reflectors if riding at dusk, dawn, or night.
• Do Not Ride Under the Influence: Avoid biking while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This applies to all types of equipment, including bicycles.
• Beware of Slippery Conditions: Exercise extra caution in wet or icy conditions.
• Maintain Your Bike: Regularly clean and check your bike’s chain, tire pressure, and brakes. Adjust the bike as needed to ensure a proper fit.
• Wear Proper Clothing: Ensure your clothing fits well and avoid loose parts that could become entangled in the bike’s pedals or gears.
• Plan Your Rides: Start with shorter rides to build conditioning before attempting longer distances. Make sure you are in good shape for the length of your trip.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your biking sessions.
• Supervise Young Riders: Small children and inexperienced bikers should be closely supervised. Older children should have a plan for checking in with a parent or a way to communicate in case of an accident.

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