With the growing popularity of electronic bikes and scooters, bicycle safety and awareness are more important now more than ever, especially in our parks. As students prepare to return to school, we need to be aware of rules of the road that protect our young riders. Good habits start young, so parents need to teach their children what safety measures to follow and make every effort to enroll their children in e-bike safety classes sponsored by the local police department.
Everyone who rides a bike, electric or analog, should always wear a helmet regardless of distance, speed, or age. In California, a helmet is legally required for riders under the age of eighteen. Helmets should always fit the wearer snuggly; a loose helmet loses much of its efficacy. Riders should also consider wearing multi-directional impact pro-tection (MIPS) for the best protection. These helmets work to absorb the impact better than other non-MIPS helmets and are lighter, better ventilated, and are more comfortable.
E-bikes are heavier and harder to control than normal bikes; “riding double” exacerbates the difficulty required to safely maneuver, slow down, and stop. Riders should not carry passengers if their e-bike is not built with a second seat.
Riders need to know and follow vehicle codes that apply while riding. This includes driving on the right side of the road even if you are in the bike lane, using hand or turn signals when needed, using rear and front lights, and yielding when you do not have the right of way. Last but not least, consult your Park’s rules and regulations relating to riding bicycles in your Community.
Source: Marin County
