Tips For Biking In Chicago

The Active Transportation Alliance wants you to be safe out there.

Keep these tips in mind when you head out on the road or the bike path.

• Stay visible – Law requires you to have a front headlight. Rear blinking lights help motorists see you, too.

• Bike predictably

• Obey the rules of the roads – Bicyclists are vehicles. That means you are required to stop at stop signs and yield to pedestrians.

• Wear a helmet – Whether you are on California Street or the Lakefront Trail, your head is not concrete-proof. Helmets save lives.

• Check your bike – Always make sure your bike is in working order by checking the air pressure, brakes and chain.

• Know your rights – Chicago's Bicycle Safety Ordinance requires motorists to pass bicyclists with at least three feet of room. It also prohibits them from dooring cyclists or turning right or left in front of a bicyclist.

Learn how to bicycle safely and comfortably at http://www.activetrans.org/content/resources. Find out what else the Active Transportation Alliance has to offer by becoming a member. Join at www.activetrans.org.