Be aware, be prepared

Airmen are reminded to wear the proper protection while operating a bicycle in order to reduce risk of injury in case of an unexpected incident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2012, 726 pedal cyclists were killed and an additional 49,000 were injured which accounted for two percent of all traffic fatalities during the year. It is important to stay alert and protect oneself from unforeseen incidents as bicycles on the roadway are by law, vehicles with the same rights, and responsibilities as motorized vehicles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Rachel Loftis)

Pedal your way to safety

Published Aug. 21, 2014
By Staff Sgt. Candice C. Page
Headquarters Air Combat Command Public Affairs

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va -- Bicycling is a fun way to exercise and experience the great outdoors with the family. It can also serve as a great mode of transportation. While a bicycle offers many benefits, it can also bring dangers associated with any vehicle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), only one percent of all trips taken in the U.S. are by bicycle, bicyclists face a higher risk of crash-related injury and deaths than occupants of motor vehicles do. In 2010, approximately 800 bicyclists were killed and there were an estimated 515,000 emergency department visits due to bicycle-related injuries in the U.S. Data from 2005 show fatal and non-fatal crash-related injuries to bicyclists resulted in lifetime medical costs and productivity losses of $5 billion.

Following these simple steps will help bicyclist stay safe when out enjoying a ride.

Check your bike and make sure you have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) before hitting the pavement.

- wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce the chances of head injury and death

- use a bicycle that is the right size for you so you can control it properly

- make sure your tires have the right amount of air and the brakes work

- make it easier for drivers to see you by wearing light colors or reflective clothing

Bicyclists are considered vehicle operators and are required to follow the same rules as vehicle operators.

- go with the flow of traffic

- obey all traffic laws

- stay alert at all times

- look before turning

- watch for parked cars

Drivers of motor vehicles should be aware of bicyclist and ensure they are sharing the road to help save a life.

- be careful when passing stopped vehicles

- allow at least three feet of clearance when passing pedestrians or cyclists

- obey the posted speed limit

- yield to pedestrians and cyclists at crosswalks

- be watchful for cyclists when making turns

- look for cyclist before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space

Remember to use the "Check 3" GPS (Gear, Plan, Skills) risk management concept and common sense to help stay on the road and out of the hospital.

For more information about traffic safety, Airmen should refer to Air Force Instruction 91-207, The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program or visit the installation's Safety Office.