General Information

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Why Is It Important to Be Safe While Biking?

Each year in the United States, about 800 people die in bicycle-related accidents.

A key aspect of avoiding accidents is to "be predictable". Make it easy for motorists and other cyclists to tell what you are going to do. Cyclists are required to obey the same rules as drivers. Failure to obey these rules is a major contributing factor for accidents. In particular, riding the wrong way, ignoring stop signs, running red lights, and failure to observe right-of-way rules for lane changes are major contributing factors in those accidents in which cyclists are injured.

Remember: When riding a bicycle, you will always come out second best in any conflict with a motor vehicle, even if you have the right-of-way!

Bicycle Helmets

bicycle helmetWhether you cycle around the site for business or pleasure, the newly issued BNL bicycle-safety policy notes that you must wear a bicycle helmet when cycling at BNL and that the helmet must conform to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard.

For those using BNL-issued bicycles, helmets meeting the CPSC standard can be ordered from inventory. The stock number for helmets is K-70310.

Bicycle Safety Guidelines

Even adult cyclists who maintain they only cycle on paths or quiet streets should not underestimate the importance of wearing a helmet. Accidents can happen anywhere.

  • Wear a bicycle helmet. It is NYS law for persons less than 14 years of age and BNL policy for all cyclists on site.
  • Ride in a straight line and single file.
  • Use a light, reflectors and reflective clothing during darkness.
  • Wear bright clothing during the daytime.
  • Ride to the right if you are moving slower than other traffic, unless you are turning left, passing another bicycle or vehicle, or avoiding hazards.
  • Use proper hand signals when turning, stopping, or changing lanes.
  • Walk your bike when using a crosswalk.
  • Use extra caution when it is raining, and allow extra time to stop.
  • Do not wear headphones on both ears while riding.
  • Keep your bike properly maintained so it is safe.
  • Do not drink and ride. Ride defensively.
  • Be alert for road hazards.
  • Watch for cars at cross streets and driveways.
  • Obey all traffic signals.
  • Ride in the same direction as the flow of traffic.
  • Be aware of parked cars and watch for car doors that may open.
  • Give pedestrians the right of way.