BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield Police Department is offering safety tips to both drivers and bicycle riders during National Bicycle Safety Month.
BPD says deaths in bicycle related crashes are on the rise. According to BPD. 138 bicycle riders were killed on California roads in 2016, a nearly 25% increase from 2011.
BPD says failing to yield right of way, speeding, improper turning, using the wrong side of the road, and not following traffic signs or signals are primary factors in fatal crashes.
In order to keep drivers and bicycle riders safe, BPD is offering these safety tips:
- Drivers should look behind them before making a turn at an intersection, especially if crossing into a designated bike lane.
- Drivers should use extra caution backing up or leaving a parking space.
- Bicyclists should go with the flow of traffic and let faster traffic pass.
- Bicyclists should make themselves visible and wear brightly colored clothing.
- Bicyclists are advised to use lights from dusk to dawn (front white light and rear red flashing light or reflectors).
- Bicyclists should always wear a helmet and use hand signals when turning or stopping.
- Both drivers and bicyclists should avoid distractions like using their cell phones.
