Cycling is a fantastic way to have fun, stay healthy, and commute in a cheap and nature-friendly way.

But how safe is it to ride your bike in traffic? We all know that we need to be mindful when cycling, but do we really think about every aspect of cycling safety? We believe that many don’t.

For nearly a decade, the number of bicycle accident deaths declined. However, recent studies show that bicycle accident deaths are increasing. In fact, fatal bike accidents are outpacing all other traffic-related deaths. In other words, it’s a dangerous time to ride a bike in the United States.

Fortunately, you have the ability to limit the risk of a bicycle accident. Here are some tips you can do to keep yourself safe when you’re sharing the road. Start reading and stay safe out there!

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o  Wear a Helmet

Not all states require bicyclists to wear a helmet. However, research shows that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a serious injury by 70 percent. Head injuries are the leading cause of fatal bike accidents. Unfortunately, 97 percent of victims do not wear helmets. Simply wearing a helmet can prevent many unintentional bike deaths.

o  Check Your Equipment Before You Ride

Bike accidents aren’t always caused by a distracted driver or an unexpected bump in the road. Bicycle equipment malfunctions contribute to a significant number of crashes. You can reduce the risk of an equipment-related accident by checking your bike, helmet, and gear before you hit the road

o   Wear Reflective Materials

A leading cause of bike accidents is limited visibility. If a driver cannot see you, an accident is more likely to occur. This is particularly true at intersections when your paths are likely to cross. While installing reflectors on your bike can help, it’s also important to wear bright and/or reflective clothing. Increasing your visibility will reduce the risk of a bike accident.

o   Make Yourself Visible Both Day and Night

Making sure you’re visible to traffic & pedestrians is critical for safety. Wear bright colors during the day. Wear clothing with reflective strips during the night.

o   Always Obey Traffic Lights and Signs

A lot of cycling accidents are due to cyclists riding through red lights & stop signs. Cyclists share the road with vehicles. Obey traffic lights as well as any signs just like you expect cars to.

o   Limit Distractions While Riding

Avoid texting, phone calls, or listening to music while riding your bike. Roads & trails can always present surprises and demand a level of concentration.

Keep Hydrated While Cycling

Riding makes you sweat, which means you lose a lot of water. Many riders overlook the dangers of dehydration while riding. This can affect your judgment and reaction time. Always keep a bottle of water on your bike.

o   Keep Your Hands on the Handlebar As Much As Possible.

Keep your hands on the handlebar, unless you’re signing to other vehicles. Also, slow down around road hazards. 

o   Always Ride With Traffic

Cars will never expect to see you on the left side of the road, which makes riding against traffic dangerous. Also, if you ride against the flow of traffic approaching cars are coming at you much quicker.

o   Don’t Pass or Overtake Vehicles on the Right

The safest place for bicycles is to the right of car traffic. Try to ride your bike where cars and other cyclists will expect to see you. If you try to make your own rules while riding, the risk may catch up to you



You may be surprised to learn that Florida is home to more than 800 miles of trails to explore on your bike. And these trails range from flat and paved to over bridges, obstacles and more. Biking in Florida is an awesome way to spend your holiday.

Use the tips to make sure you can enjoy safely all of Florida’s beautiful biking experiences!