Iowa Bikes

SHARING IOWA'S ROADS WITH BICYCLES


Safety tips for motorists
  • Do not honk your horn at bicyclists.
    They may be startled and lose control.
  • Use extra caution when passing bicycles.
    Move entirely into the left lane; on a two-lane road, do not pass a bicycle if oncoming traffic is near.
  • Bicyclists might swerve to avoid road hazards.
    Common road hazards for bicyclists are potholes, debris, drainage grates, railroad tracks and narrow bridges.
  • Be careful when opening your vehicle door.
    Road widths often force bicyclists to ride close to parked vehicles where they may be injured by an opening door.
  • When in doubt, yield to bicycles.
Safety tips for bicyclists
  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Ride on the right.
    Ride in the right lane, except when passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding hazards.
  • Never ride against traffic.
    Always ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Obey traffic signs and signals.
    Use hand signals to advise motorists you plan to turn, change lanes or stop.
  • Make eye contact with motorists.
    Never assume a motorist sees you or that you have the right-of-way. Expect the unexpected such as: parked vehicles pulling into traffic; vehicle doors opening into your path; and debris on the road.
  • At night use a headlight, taillight and reflectors.