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Cycle safe: Tips, rules for riding on base

  • Published
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Safety Office
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  

Bicyclists have a right to ride on the roadways, but they also have a responsibility to follow the law.

 

At Scott Air Force Base, bicycle helmets are mandatory for everyone and when properly fitted, are an essential element of bicycle safety. Headphones are always prohibited when riding a bicycle.

 

On all Air Force installations, bicycle riders are also required to wear a highly visible (brightly colored) outer garment during the day and outer garment containing retro-reflective material at night in accordance with Air Force Instruction 91-207, The U.S. Air Force Traffic Safety Program.

 

On or off-base, bicyclists must obey the same traffic laws, signs and signals that apply to motorists.

 

The following applies:

 

· Come to a complete stop at stop signs and traffic lights

· Ride in the same direction as other traffic, not against traffic.

· Riding on sidewalks is prohibited on-base, except in housing areas.

· Bicycles may not cross at crosswalks unless the rider walks the bicycle across in the crosswalk.

· Bicyclists must give right-of -way to pedestrians in crosswalks and when riding on sidewalks in housing areas.

· Motorists are required by law to allow at least three feet of space between them and a bicyclist when passing.

 

Bicycle Safety Tips

 

Make sure your bicycle has the following safety equipment:

 

· Front light visible for at least 500 feet (night riders)

· Clear front reflector

· Red rear reflector visible from 100 to 600 feet

· Horn or bell that can be heard up to 100 feet

· Wheel-mounted side reflectors

· Reflector pedals

· Check the brakes, seat and handle bars often

· Keep both hands on the handlebars

· Use a backpack or a bike carrier to hold items

· Ride slower on wet streets, loose gravel or bumpy roads

· Ride single file. Do not ride next to each other if possible

· Always ride one to a bike

· Ride as close to the right edge of the road as practical

· Slow down at intersections and railroad crossings

· Avoid riding at night