Bicycle Safety

In Kansas, bicyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as motorists.  Please ride safely, be courteous to other roadway users, and abide by all Kansas traffic laws.  Always ride a well-maintained bicycle and know your riding limitations.  You should be able to ride comfortably with minimal strain at least half of the total distance planned to be covered each day of your tour.

Helmets:  Bicyclists are strongly encouraged to wear American National Standards Institute (ANSI) , or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), or Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell) approved helmets at all times.

Paved Shoulders:  Bicyclists are strongly encouraged to ride on paved shoulders which are equal to or greater than three feet in width whenever they are available.

Ride to the Right, With Traffic:  Ride with normal traffic flow and ride to the right side of the roadway.  If lane width allows, stay within two feet from the curb or roadway edge which will allow you maneuvering space to avoid debris or potholes.  Lane markings are for your safety and benefit.

Be Predictable:  Do not surprise a motorist, pedestrian or other bicyclist.  Hold your line.  Act predictably and avoid sudden movements.  Do not show off by stunting or weaving in traffic.

Group Riding:  Ride in single file on the right side of the roadway.  Avoid overlapping wheels.

Use Arm Signals:  Signaling intentions is essential to let motorists and riding companions know what you are about to do.

Arm Signals

Pedestrians:  Remember that pedestrians have the right-of-way.

Be Easily Seen:  Wear brightly colored clothing and have reflectors on your bicycle.  When riding after dusk, the bicycle must be equipped with a white light visible at least 500 feet ahead and have a reflector visible at least 500 feet to the rear.  A flag is useful in increasing your visibility on rural roads.

Child Carriers:  Carriers must offer the child protection from rear wheel spokes and a strap to secure the child.

Railroad Tracks:  Stop within 15 feet of railroad crossings.  Cross railroad tracks at right angles. Trains always have the right-of-way.

Other Important Safety Tips:  Be extra careful at intersections, listen for overtaking vehicles, brake carefully in wet weather or on slippery surfaces, load your bicycle correctly, drink and eat properly, and be careful of dogs and other animals.

RIDE DEFENSIVELY:
MAINTAIN A SAFETY FIRST ATTITUDE.  IN A CRASH, WHETHER YOUR FAULT OR NOT YOUR FAULT YOU LOSE.   USE ALL YOUR ABILITIES TO PROTECT YOURSELF.