How to Ride Safely
Bicyclists have similar rights and responsibilities as operators of motor vehicles, according to Massachusetts State Law. This means bicyclists must follow all traffic rules, and they are allowed to bike on any road in the state, except for limited access highways like I-93. Following the same rules as other vehicles makes you predictable and reduces the likelihood of a crash. Obeying the law also signifies respect to all road users, emphasizing the fact that bikes belong on our streets.
It is important to practice defensive bicycling. Because bicycles are small, can easily filter through slow or stopped traffic, or can be obscured from view by cars, drivers and pedestrians will often not see bicycles or will forget to look for them. However, there are things you can do as a bicyclist to ensure that even when other people don't see you, a crash does not result. Below are resources for learning about safe bicycling practices as well as places where you can go to attend classes on urban bicycling.
Online Resources
Bicycling Street Smarts: Riding Confidently, Legally, and Safely
A must read for all riders about how to ride in any setting.
Discussion Panel: How to Bike Safely on Unsafe Roads [Video]
A panel event held in 2016 in Somerville.
Shifting Gears: Bicyclists & Public Safety [Video]
This video was produced by the Boston Police Academy and MassBike for training police officers on Massachusetts bike laws, but it is also a great overview for everyone of how motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are expected to safely co-exist and share our streets.
7 minute video clip from July 2016 Bike Safety Discussion Panel in Somerville
Beginners guide to bicycle maintenance
Healthy Hobbies: A Beginner's Guide To Cycling
From Pivot Health
Bike Helmet Safety – Why Wear a Helmet?
The guide touches on the following areas that every cyclist should be reminded once in a while especially beginners:
Dangers of not wearing bike safety helmet
How to wear a bike helmet correctly and mistakes to avoid
Bike helmet don’ts
What to do after a bike accident with a car
In-Person Classes
A Somerville-based business with classes for adults and children who do not know how to ride a bike, as well as classes for safe on-road riding.
City of Cambridge Bicycle Workshops
The City of Cambridge is proud to offer bicycle education workshops throughout the year, free to those who work or live in Cambridge. All classes are lecture-style workshops unless otherwise noted. To register for classes, please email jlawrence@cambridgema.gov or call 617/349-4671. All classes are paid for by the City of Cambridge and every participant receives one free helmet each year.
Safe Bicycling Tips
