Southern Wisconsin Times

Bike riding is a great summer activity and a fun way to stay active. With warmer weather and longer days, more bicyclists will be out and about enjoying Wisconsin's Park Place. To ensure safety throughout the season, the Janesville Police Department is reminding the community of a few biking tips: 

• Always wear a properly fitted bike helmet. 75% of all bicycle fatalities involve injury to the head.
• Obey traffic laws and make sure to use signals and signs when turning. Remember to always ride with traffic on the right side of the street.
• Be visible. Wear bright clothing for daytime riding, and use a white front light and red rear reflector at night (required by law). 
• Ride defensively. Scan traffic at all times. Be aware of other traffic when approaching intersections and making turns. Be courteous when riding. Do not use alcohol or drugs before riding.
• Plan your route, and choose roads with less traffic and slower speeds. Your safest way may be away from traffic, in a bike lane, or on a bike path.

Motorists also need to be on the lookout for bicyclists. Give people on bikes plenty of room and watch for their signals. Try never to honk a car horn at cyclists, as this sudden noise may startle them. Share the road with those traveling on their bikes.

By following these tips, cyclists, and motorists can ensure another safe biking season in Janesville. 

Learn more about the many beautiful bike trails available in the community on the City's website.

For more safety tips or questions, contact Sergeant Benjamin Thompson at (608) 755-3133 or thompsonb@ci.janesville.wi.us.

Original source can be found here.