Every parent has an innate desire to keep their children safe. Unfortunately, accidents do happen and injuries occur. The weather has turned warmer and parents are encouraging their little ones to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. For many children, this enjoyment includes bicycle riding.
Bike riding is a fun and healthy way to exercise, but a bike is not a toy. Technically-speaking, a bicycle is a vehicle and should be treated as such. Keep your kids safe on their bikes by following these tips.
1. Adjust The Bike
This is especially important whether you are purchasing a new bike or your child is riding the same bike they did last summer. Your child should have about 3 inches of space between them and the bicycle when straddling a mountain bike. There should be an inch or two of space on a road bike. When your child is sitting on the seat, their knee should be slightly bent when the pedal is at its lowest point. The handlebar and seat should be level with one another.
2. Helmet
Your little one should be wearing a helmet every time they take off on their bicycle. Always check to make sure that your child’s helmet fits properly at the start of the season. Heads grow, too!
3. Clothing
Clothing should be light and bright. White does not make children more visible. Think fluorescent colors when outfitting your child for a day of riding. Another good idea is to put a strip of reflective tape on their chest and back.
4. Proper Riding
Teach your child to ride their bike properly. That means that at least one had is on the handlebars at all times. Books, papers and other belongings should be carried in a backpack, if they are carried at all. Make sure your child knows to keep an eye out for road hazards and understands how to avoid them. Do not let your child ride alone at night.
While some bicycle accidents are the fault of a vehicle driver, many are to blame on the cyclist. When you take the time to teach your child how to ride safely, you are more relaxed letting them go off and explore on two wheels.
Bicycle accidents occur in North Carolina and around the country. If you have been involved in an accident locally, please call our office. A member of our team will review the details of your accident at no cost to you and advise you of your options.
