Bicycle Safety Program

Introduction

MU recognizes that concerns exist within the University community regarding the safe use of bicycles on and about the campus. Pedestrians are concerned that they must be overly vigilant to avoid conflicts with cyclists, particularly in heavy traffic areas. Bicycles parked inappropriately may impede the free ingress/egress of buildings in the event of an emergency. Additionally, some experience extreme difficulty using stairs when the handrails are not accessible due to parked bicycles. Many are concerned about the disorderly appearance of and potential damage to campus when bicycles are secured to trees and other inappropriate fixed objects.

Cyclists have legitimate concerns of their own. Their concerns are that regulatory reaction by the University might impair the use of bicycles for transportation to and about campus, that there are an insufficient number of reliable bicycle racks available, and that they are victimized by the theft of their bicycles or component parts.

General Bicycle Safety Recommendations

• Register your bicycle with MU Police.
• Regularly inspect the bike to ensure that all parts are properly tightened and in good working order. Check that all moving parts are lubricated properly and functioning smoothly, and make sure that tires are properly situated on rims.
• Remember, always wear a CPSC approved helmet.
• Wear proper apparel, and be conscious to ensure that nothing gets caught in the bike chain. Loose pant legs, long skirts, a backpack strap, or a shoelace can get caught in a chain or pedal and cause you to crash. Wear proper shoes when riding. Do not ride barefoot.
• Never change direction or change lanes without first looking behind you and using the correct hand signals. That way everyone knows where you're going. Use your left arm for all hand signals. To indicate you're making a left turn, hold your arm straight out to the left; to indicate a right turn, bend your elbow, holding your arm up in an "L" shape; and before you stop, bend your elbow, pointing your arm downward in an upside down "L" shape.
• Always ride on the right side of the street in the same direction as the traffic. Never ride against traffic.
• Use bike lanes or designated bike routes whenever you can.
• Always stop and check for traffic in both directions when leaving your driveway, an alley, or a curb. Some people in cars just don't see cyclists.
• Don't ride too closely to parked cars - doors can open suddenly!
• Do not wear headphones when riding; they distract you from the sounds of traffic around you, such as a driver honking a car horn as a warning to you.
• Be especially alert and cautious on busy roads and at intersections. Follow all road laws; remember bicycles must stop at stop signs and signal all turns.
• Be aware of surroundings and stay alert and attentive when riding. Do not ride your bicycle under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. And don't use a cell phone when riding.
• If you're cycling with friends, ride single file.
• If you ride when it's dark, be sure to have reflectors on your bike and a battery-operated headlight.

Contact EHS for additional guidance on your bicycle safety issues.