This page is part of the PALM ARCHIVES and may include outdated information.

“Bicyclists fare best when they act as drivers of vehicles” – John Forester

We highly recommend that first time and beginning riders complete the online version of the League of American Bicyclists ‘Traffic Skills 101’ course. You may complete individual course modules and return at a later time and continue where you left off. This course can be found at http://bikeed.org .

Below are the basic rules of the road for riding your bike on PALM.

Proper helmet fit
Your helmet should sit straight on your head – not tipped toward the back of head. The chinstrap should be slightly snug – only two fingers should fit between it and your chin.

Where to ride
Always ride on the right side of the road and as far to the right as is safe.
Use paved shoulders where available, debris free, and of sufficient width. Don’t ride more than two abreast and single file in traffic.
Don’t swerve around potholes or debris without first checking that it is clear behind. Pass parked cars a door width out, in case one opens.

Hand signals
Proper hand signals are necessary to let drivers, as well as other riders, know your intentions.
Left turn: left hand straight out.
Right turn: l right arm straight out, or left arm bent at elbow pointing up.
Stopping: left arm bent at the elbow pointing down.
If you see debris on the road: Point to it to alert riders behind you.
To signal the sag wagon: Tap the top of your helmet.

Riding with other riders
Stay to the right and pass only on the left. Give a warning when passing other riders. Say “Passing on your left”.
Ride predictably, never more than two abreast, and single up when a car or truck needs to pass.
Call out, “Car back”, “Car up”, “Slowing”, or “Stopping” to alert other riders as to what you see and what you are doing.

Scanning
Keep your head up and keep it moving while looking around you. Regularly look in your mirror. Don’t have a mirror? It’s highly suggested you get one.

Making a left turn
First, check that it is clear behind, signal and if on a two lane road, move to left side of lane. Signal again and complete the turn. If on a multi-lane or a road with a left turn lane, move across each lane in steps.

Dogs
If chased by a dog, use pepper spray, squirt with a water bottle, yell at the dog, or try to out run it.

Crossing railroad tracks
Always cross railroad tracks at a right angle. Make sure the bike is perfectly upright and not tilted when crossing, especially if it is wet. If there is any doubt, get off and walk your bike across.

Perform an ABC Quick Check
Do this at least once each day before you get on your bike.

An excellent PDF publication from LMB:
What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know

More in-depth safety videos:
Traffic 101 from LAB
Free on-line “Essentials” course from CyclingSavvy
Safe Cycling Overview from National Highway Traffic Administration
ABC Quickcheck class from Traffic 101

If you have any questions, you can email me directly.
Al Lauland
PALM Bicycle Education Chairperson
League Certified Instructor LCI#1396
al.lauland@gmail.com