Bicycle Safety
Stay Safe on the Road
While some people like how direct main roads are, others prefer side streets because they are quieter, away from car traffic, and often marked as a bike route. Some enjoy traveling off the beaten path and exploring trails tucked in nature. Wherever you choose to ride, following some general safety guidelines will keep you enjoying your bike for years to come!
Washington State Bicycle Laws
Before you venture out, brush up on safe bicycling practices to have the best experience possible. Learn about bicyclist-related laws, safety tips and the rights and responsibilities you have as a bicyclist on the Bicycle Laws & Safety–Revised Code of Washington State by WABikes.
Smart Cycling Tips
There are plenty of tips available to help you stay safe while you ride your bike, from riding on the correct side of the road to signaling a turn and obeying traffic lights. Use these bicycling tips to learn more about how to ride safely and perform maintenance on your bike.
Helmets
Wearing a helmet while you ride your bike can prevent injuries and lower the probability of head damage in accidents. Keep your head safe and check out WSDOT's web page for information on which jurisdictions require helmets and other safe riding tips.
Riding in the Rain
Different weather changes riding conditions, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get around on your bike! Learn about visibility, road conditions, traffic, dressing for riding in comfort, and caring for your bike on the City of Portland's tips for biking in the wet, cold, and dark.
Education
Whether new to cycling or a seasoned rider, consider taking a class to learn new skills. Organizations like 2nd Cycle in Tacoma and Cascade Bicycle Club in Seattle offer low-cost and free bicycling clinics and maintenance classes for recreational cyclists, event riders, commuters, novice cyclists, seniors, and youth.
You can also check with your favorite local bike shop or REI to see if they offer riding or maintenance classes or workshops.
E-Bike Safety
Electric bicycles or e-bikes can be a fantastic option for sustainable transportation because the electric assistance helps you bike longer distances with less effort than a traditional bike. Just like riding a traditional bike, there are things you can do while e-biking to stay safe like signaling, turning correctly, and wearing a helmet and reflective clothing. To learn more about e-bike safety and basics watch this Rider Safety video from People for Bikes:
There are several local programs to help you buy an e-bike. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has a rebate program that helps lower the cost of buying an e-bike based on your income. 2nd Cycle in Tacoma allows Pierce County residents to borrow an e-bike to try out through their E-bike Lending Library.