How to Ride Safely in Traffic: 10 Habits That Keep You Seen
In 2023, 1,166 people on bikes were killed in crashes with motor vehicles in the US. Most of those crashes happened in urban areas, and about half happened after dark. You can't control every driver, but a few habits make you far easier to see and predict.
1. Light up, day and night
About half of cyclist deaths happen in dark conditions. Use a white front light and a red rear light at night, and consider running a flashing rear light in the daytime too. It's one of the cheapest safety upgrades there is.
2. Wear something drivers notice
Bright and fluorescent colors stand out against the road, especially at dawn and dusk. A jersey with a clear message helps too: drivers are more likely to give you room when they've read something that makes them think, or smile.
3. Ride where drivers are looking
Hugging the curb puts you out of a driver's line of sight and invites close passes. Ride far enough out to stay clear of debris, drains and the door zone.
4. Stay out of the door zone
Ride at least a door's width from parked cars. A car door opening in front of you is one of the most common urban crashes, and one of the easiest to avoid.
5. Be predictable
Hold a straight line, signal your turns early, and don't weave between parked cars. Predictable riders are easier for drivers to plan around.
6. Make eye contact at intersections
If you can't see a driver's eyes, assume they haven't seen you. Watch for left-turning cars and drivers pulling out of side streets and driveways.
7. Watch for right hooks
When a car passes you and then turns right across your path, you've been right-hooked. Near intersections, be ready to brake, and don't sit in a driver's blind spot alongside a truck or bus.
8. Take the lane when it's safer
On narrow roads where there isn't room for a car to pass safely, riding in the middle of the lane stops drivers from squeezing by.
9. Use a mirror or radar
Knowing what's coming up behind you means fewer surprises. A small mirror or a rear radar light gives you an early warning.
10. Plan quieter routes
A few extra minutes on a quieter street or a bike path is often a much more relaxing ride. Ask local riders and clubs for their favorite routes.
Want drivers to give you more room? Check out our jerseys with a message.