National Bicycle Safety Month: Ride Smart, Stay Safe, and Celebrate the Joy of Cycling

May is National Bicycle Safety Month, a time dedicated to promoting safer cycling habits, increasing awareness of bicycle laws and infrastructure, and encouraging communities to support riders of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a casual commuter, or a family enjoying weekend rides, National Bicycle Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to focus on the practices that keep everyone safe on the road.

In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of National Bicycle Safety Month, key statistics, vital safety tips, laws to know, and why this awareness initiative is more relevant now than ever.

National Bicycle Safety Month is observed every May in the United States and is led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in partnership with local governments, law enforcement, cycling organizations, and schools. It was established to raise awareness of bicycle-related injuries and fatalities and to advocate for improved safety measures.

The month coincides with National Bike Month, a broader campaign that promotes the benefits of cycling and encourages more people to ride. The safety-specific emphasis helps create a culture where cyclists and motorists alike understand their responsibilities and work together to reduce accidents.

Cycling continues to grow in popularity as a mode of transportation, recreation, and exercise. However, with increased ridership comes a greater need for awareness and safety.

 According to NHTSA:

• In 2021, over 1,000 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the United States.

• More than 130,000 cyclists are injured in crashes every year.

• Most fatal bicycle accidents occur in urban areas and at non-intersection locations.

These statistics highlight the importance of education, infrastructure, and mutual respect between road users

1. Wear a Helmet

A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by more than 50%. Always choose a certified helmet (look for the CPSC label) and replace it after any significant impact.

2. Be Visible

• Wear bright, reflective clothing, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime.

• Equip your bike with front white lights and rear red lights.

• Use reflective tape or accessories on your bike and gear.

3. Obey Traffic Laws

• Ride in the same direction as traffic.

• Stop at red lights and stop signs.

• Yield to pedestrians and follow lane markings.

4. Use Hand Signals

Communicate your intentions with hand signals when turning, changing lanes, or stopping. This keeps everyone on the road informed.

5. Stay Alert and Ride Defensively

• Watch for car doors opening, pedestrians, and vehicles turning across your path.

• Avoid distractions like headphones or mobile phones.

6. Check Your Bike Before You Ride

Use the ABC Quick Check:

• A : Air in tires

• B : Brakes working

• C : Chain, cranks, and cassette

• Quick : Quick releases are closed

• Check : Overall bike condition

For Cyclists:

• Use designated bike lanes when available.

• Ride predictably and don’t weave between cars.

• Pass on the left and signal your movements.

• Ride no more than two abreast and single file when traffic is heavy.

For Drivers:

• Give cyclists at least 3 feet of clearance when passing.

• Look before opening doors or making turns.

• Yield to cyclists as you would to other vehicles.

• Stay off your phone and avoid distractions.

Mutual respect on the road is the foundation of safer cycling environments.

Children:

• Always ride with adult supervision.

• Use sidewalks or paths when permitted.

• Practice riding skills in safe, low-traffic areas.

Teens:

• Reinforce helmet use and road rules.

• Encourage safe routes to school with bike-friendly infrastructure.

Seniors:

• Choose bikes suited to mobility and comfort.

• Focus on visibility and route planning to avoid high-traffic zones.

1. Join a Local Ride or Safety Event

Many cities host group rides, helmet giveaways, and safety classes during May. Participating is a great way to connect and learn.

2. Promote Safety at Work or School

Organize a "Bike to Work" or "Bike to School" day and distribute safety materials.

3. Advocate for Better Infrastructure

Support local policies that invest in bike lanes, signage, and traffic-calming measures.

4. Volunteer with Advocacy Groups

Organizations like the League of American Bicyclists and Safe Routes to School rely on volunteers to educate and promote safer streets.

• Smart Helmets : Equipped with lights, turn signals, and crash detection.

• Mirrors : Handlebar or helmet-mounted mirrors improve rear visibility.

• High-Lumen Lights : USB-rechargeable lights with daylight visibility.

• GPS Trackers : Help locate your bike if stolen and can alert loved ones in case of an accident.

Beyond safety, National Bicycle Safety Month supports broader goals:

• Environmental Impact : Reduced reliance on cars cuts greenhouse gas emissions.

• Health Benefits : Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

• Traffic Reduction : More bikes mean fewer cars and reduced congestion.

Encouraging safe cycling contributes to cleaner, healthier, and more connected communities.

With advances in urban design and smart technology, the future of bike safety looks promising. Protected bike lanes, automated vehicle detection systems, and increased legislative support for Vision Zero initiatives (which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities) are reshaping the way we think about road safety.

Ongoing education, infrastructure investment, and a culture of mutual respect are key to making cycling safer and more accessible for everyone.

National Bicycle Safety Month is the perfect time to recommit to safe, smart, and sustainable cycling. Whether you're hitting the streets daily or just rediscovering your love for biking, every action counts:

• Check your gear – Make sure your helmet fits, your lights work, and your bike is road-ready.

• Share safety tips – Post, share, or talk to your community about safe riding habits.

• Get involved – Join a local event, volunteer, or advocate for better biking infrastructure.

Ready to ride safer and smarter? Join the movement and celebrate cycling all month long—and beyond!