Stay safe on two wheels this summer

Love to enjoy the great outdoors on your bicycle? It’s a great time to review some important safety tips. While bicycling is a great way to get exercise, it also can be dangerous if you don’t take safety precautions. On average, a bicyclist is injured every seven minutes in the United States.

The good news: The increased use of bicycle helmets is saving lives, especially among younger cyclists. The bad news: Many adults still don’t wear helmets — even those who require their children to wear them! Adults now comprise three-quarters of those injured while riding bicycles. Always wear a helmet!

Before you hit the road on two wheels, take a look at these important safety tips from BicycleSafe.com. Many bicycle injuries occur at intersections, while bicycling at high speeds and while bicycling around parked vehicles. Be on the lookout for disembarking passengers exiting a parked car. Be cautious when cycling at high speeds. Slow down or stop when approaching intersections. After a stop, be sure to look both ways before proceeding.

If you bike after dark, wear luminescent clothing. And remember: Mounting a small mirror on your handlebars can help you see what is coming up behind you. It’s an inexpensive add-on that could save your life. Have children? Take some time to review these important safety tips with them.