Bicycling can be a great way to spend your evening especially when the weather is pleasant and you have company of some good friends. It is not only healthy for your body but it can also help you relax your mind and enjoy the peace and quiet of your neighborhood while giving you a chance to catch up with your friends. But most people in California are not aware of the fact that as a bicycle rider, there are a number of rules and regulations that need to be followed by everyone. It is very important for all bicyclists to know the rules that are associated with cycling as well as the general traffic signs on the roads.
As a bicyclist, you have the same responsibilities and rights as any other motor vehicle operator on the road. While on the road, you must understand that any wrong turn or slight mistake by you does not only risk your own well being but also the safety of other people on the road. Therefore, having knowledge of all the rules and regulations of the road is necessary before you step out. In addition to this, you should be well prepared on your own i.e. put your helmet on, cover your knees and elbows with protectors and make sure your bicycle chain is properly oiled and moving perfectly.
While on the road, comply with all the signs that are there by the roadside and just like a car driver, bicycling under influence is a crime. Do not try to go on the main road especially when you are drunk or under the influence of some drugs; the punishment for bicycling under influence is the same as that for driving a car under similar condition. Apart from this, you also need to pay attention to your equipment as a bicycle operator so that you do not face any problem while on the road. Check if the tires are properly inflated and the brakes are working. According to the law in California, all bicycles need to have a white light on the front and a red light on the backside for traveling during the night. Make sure that the lights are working before your leave your house.
Moving on the main road requires you to follow all the standard procedures even as a bicyclist. For instant, if you want to over take another bicycle or any other vehicle, you may do so only from the left side. Similarly, while taking turns, proper signals need to be given so that the traffic coming behind you is well aware of your intentions on the road. You also need to be careful not to put on ear phones, head phones or any other device in your ears that may affect your ability to hear horns or emergency announcements on the road. You should also avoid using cell phones or even texting since it diverts your attention from the road.
If the weather is cloudy or windy, you may also carry protective glasses with you since the eyes start getting watery when you are cycling against the wind. So when you go out for bicycling next time, be sure to act as a responsible citizen, do not be selfish and make sure that other people on the road are comfortable around you. If everyone plays their part on the road, our traffic can become much safer for all of us and everyone will be able to enjoy their ride on the road. So be sure that you are planning your part in improving our traffic system.
