Bicycle Safety Starts with You: A Message from Statesville Police Department

Safety Tips for Drivers

Drivers play a critical role in keeping bicyclists safe.

• Always stay alert, avoid distractions, and watch carefully for bicyclists - especially when turning or approaching intersections.
• Remember to look left-right-left and check behind you when turning right on red.
• If you see a bicyclist, slow down and maintain a safe distance when passing.
• Higher speeds increase the risk of serious injury or death in a crash, so reducing speed can make a life-saving difference.

Safety Tips for Bicyclists

Bicyclists can take important steps to protect themselves on the road.

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet - just like seat belts in a car, helmets save lives.
• Make yourself visible by using lights and reflectors on your bike and wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially in low-light conditions.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic, obey all traffic signs and signals, and stay focused - avoid distractions like texting or listening to music that may prevent you from hearing approaching vehicles.

By working together and following these simple safety practices, we can make Statesville’s streets safer for everyone. The Statesville Police Department encourages all residents to stay alert, stay visible, and share the road responsibly this Bicycle Safety Month - and every month.

For more bicycle safety information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety.