The Safest Way to Bike on a City Street: Ride in the Lane or Hug the Curb

When I'm riding my bike on the street, I always stay as visible as possible. I wear bright clothing, use reflectors on my bike, avoid riding at night or in bad weather, and yield to pedestrians and be cautious at intersections. Being aware of my surroundings is a key to staying safe.

Riding Safety Tips

Ride with traffic, not against it.

Use hand signals to indicate your intentions.

Avoid wearing headphones/earbuds as you need to hear your surroundings.

Obey traffic signs and lights, stop for stop signs and red lights.

Avoid 'showboating'—the streets are not the place for risky or dangerous riding.

Tips for Drivers to Stay Safe

In my experience, drivers are good at not hitting other drivers. However, it's the cyclists' visibility and predictability that are most important. It's not much different on a bike. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and predict when a cyclist might do something unexpected.

Pedestrian and Motorist Safety

Bicycle commuting is actually safer than car driving when factoring in the health benefits. The 'safest' way to ride is to ride in the lane, not hug the curb. This is a concept known as vehicular cycling.

Unlike many cyclists, I don't believe vehicular cycling is the end-all solution, but it's the best start. Sharing a lane with a motor vehicle is not practical, and the gutter can be dangerous due to trash and potholes. Additionally, the bike's chances of being doored by a parked vehicle are higher when riding close to the curb.

The Benefits of Riding in the Lane

Riding in the middle of the lane:

Reduces the risk of accidents when being passed by a motorist. Eliminates the need to weave in and out of the lane to avoid obstacles. Keeps the driver in their lane, making them less nervous about passing the cyclist closely. Passing takes less time than passing slower vehicles, and it doesn't hold up traffic significantly.

Additional Safety Tips

To be even safer:

Use good rechargeable lights and reflective sidewall tires; no wheel lights are as effective.

Carry your weight on the bike, rather than in a backpack, to stay balanced.

Use a good rack for carrying cargo, and secure a backpack if necessary.

These tips have kept me safe for three decades, and I have never been hit by a car. I am harassed maybe once or twice a year, despite being an unimposing 5'6" old with a cane. By following these guidelines, cyclists can significantly reduce their risk of being involved in accidents while riding on city streets.

Conclusion

Being aware of your surroundings, using proper signals, and riding defensively can greatly increase your safety while cycling in the city. By following these tips, you can make your rides both enjoyable and safe.