Each year, more than 1,500 bicyclists are killed and a half-million bicycle-related injuries are treated in hospital emergency rooms. The statistics are increasing each year because of riders' failure to take certain safety precautions.
The community policing/bicycle unit of the Davie Police Department wants to see these numbers drop significantly and offers the following tips for young and old bikers.
-- Wear a bicycle helmet: Head injuries are by far the most serious that a bicyclist can suffer. The most severe are to the brain, causing permanent damage. Studies have shown that use of a helmet can reduce head injuries.
Parents: set an example for your children; wear a helmet too. Helmets can be purchased in bicycle shops or at department stores. Look for helmets that meet standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation or the American National Standards Institute. Approved helmets bear the code ANSI Z90.4 inside.
Choose a helmet that is liked and fits well. Replace damaged or worn helmets immediately.
-- Lights at night: Florida State Statutes (316.2065 (8) ) provide regulations for riding a bicycle at night.
The law reads: "Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front, exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear, exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear."
More than 60 percent of all serious injury and fatal bicycle crashes have occurred between dusk and dawn. Most of those bicycles did not have lights. Wear light-colored clothing; reflective materials are helpful.
-- Never wear headsets: Radio-type headsets impair your ability to hear approaching vehicles and can cause you to be distracted.
-- Follow rules of the road: Bicyclists who ride in the roadway must follow all rules and regulations for motor vehicles. Use hand signals when making a turn. Walk your bicycle across intersections. Ride on the right side of the roadway, single file. Use a bicycle lane if possible. Violations of state bicycle laws provide for fines of $17.