Rules of the road??

[PscyclePath]

So I got my road bike a few months back and have been riding it to the gym, supermarket etc but I am not really sure of the rules of the road. Which side of the road do I ride on? Hand signals? How do I deal with honking? Sidewalks...yay or nay? Give some advice please!

1. Ride on the right side of the road (with the flow of traffic); never on the left, and not on the sidewalks.

2. Obey all traffic signs and signals (especially stop signs, yield signs, and red lights. Remember that you not only have to stop, but also yield to any crossing traffic.

3. Yield right of way when required. Stop signs, yield signs, and red lights indicate who has this at controlled intersections, at uncontrolled intersections or 4-way stops, it goes by first come, first served.

4. Between intersections, position yourself by speed. If you're going faster than other traffic, position yourself on the left (in the "passing lane"), slower traffic to the right, if stopped you should be at the curb or off the roadway.

5. When you change lanes, or move laterally on the roadway, yield to traffic that is already in the new lane of travel.

6. Ride in the rightmost lane of traffic that serves your destination (e.g., that goes where you want to go. Stay away from the curb, or out of the right-turn-only lane if you plan to go straight through the intersection.

7. Be visible to other drivers. Ride where drivers can see you, and are expecting other traffic to be. Use a front white light and red rear light and reflectors when it is dark or dusk; wear visible clothing at all times. Make eye contact with drivers. Don’t ride on the sidewalk.

8. Be predictable. Make sure drivers and other cyclists know what you are doing. Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve in and out between parked cars. Signal your turns, and check behind you before turning or changing lanes.

9. Be alert to the traffic conditions around you. Anticipate what other drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists are going to do next. Watch for turning vehicles and for opening car doors; ride outside the door zone. Look out for debris, potholes, and utility covers in the road.

10. Be prepared. A safe ride starts with a safe machine. Check to make sure you have air in your tires, your brakes are working, and your chain runs smoothly. Carry repair and emergency supplies appropriate to the length of your ride. Wear a helmet, gloves, and glasses.

Tom
LCI #1853