Quiz: What’s Your Biking IQ?

The answer is true. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that as many as 500,000 emergency room visits each year are related to injuries caused by bikes, and the most serious ones are head injuries. And keep in mind that you don’t have to be biking on winding, overgrown paths up a steep mountain side to get hurt. Even falling on a simple bike path when you are traveling at a low speed and hitting your head can be enough to cause serious injury. But wearing a helmet can help to protect your head. In fact, the latest research reveals that wearing a bike helmet can prevent as many as 85 percent of all head injuries, according to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI). Further, BHSI reports that wearing a helmet is the law in 22 states and 192 localities. You can find a helmet at most biking shops and discount stores for about $30 or even less, making this an easy and inexpensive way to protect yourself.

The answer is false. While most helmets today meet the minimum safety standards, your best bet is to be sure by selecting one that has a sticker inside showing it is certified by CPSC. You will also want to be sure it has the proper fit on your head. The experts say that you want it to sit flat on your head and not tip backward. The straps should also fit snugly under your chin to help secure it in place. Some helmets also offer vents and visors and sweat control features, which can provide added comfort. You should look for a helmet in a bright color, too, since this will be easier for cars and other bikers to see and can therefore give you an added layer of safety. You should also avoid helmets that aren’t specifically made for biking unless they have the CPSC certification inside. This is because certain skating helmets sold today may not be tough enough to protect you from a severe impact. Finally, if you are in an accident, you will need to replace your helmet since some of the foam inside could be crushed, even if you can’t see the damage. Otherwise, helmets can last about five years, depending on how often you use them.

The answer is true. There are some easy, but important, steps you can take before you head off on your bike to help keep yourself safe. For instance, you should check your bike thoroughly before you leave home to make sure your brakes are working correctly and your tires are properly inflated with no leaks. You should also check the seat height and angle to be sure it fits you just right so you don’t put unnecessary strain on your muscles or ligaments. Consider wearing sunglasses or goggles to help keep dust and wind from getting into your eyes and bug repellent to keep pests away. In addition, knee and elbow pads are a good idea if you will be driving over rocky trails. For comfort’s sake, you might consider gloves and padded biking shorts as well. It is also always a good idea to be prepared for emergencies with a tire pump, spare tube or repair kit, water bottle, and a cell phone. Finally, make sure to always ride in the same direction as the traffic (not against it, the way you would if you were running). Be sure to pay attention to the cars, other bikes, and pedestrians so you and everyone around you will be safe.