• Keep your bicycle in good repair.  Every bike should have the required reflectors.  Check the brakes often to see that they are working.  The seat and handlebars should be securely attached and properly adjusted.
• Wear a protective helmet and bright clothing.  Bicycle helmets are an essential element of bicycle safety.  Always strap on an approved safety helmet before you ride.
• Use the right communications.  Signal your turns and stops using your left arm, about one-third of a block before you plan to turn so that vehicles behind you will know your intentions.

Check your local codes.  Signals may vary from state to state.

Right Turns - Right turns must be made from the right lane.  Stay as close as practical to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.

Left Turn - When making a left turn, bicyclists have two choices.  The first is to make the turn as a car would.  When a left-hand lane exists, the bicyclist should occupy the right-hand side of that lane and then, after entering the intersection, look in all directions and make the turn when safe.

The second choice is to stay as close as practical to the right curb or edge of the roadway.  After proceeding across the intersecting roadway to the far corner of the curb or intersection of the roadway edges, the bicyclist must wait out of the way of traffic.  After obeying any official traffic control device, the bicyclist may complete the turn in the new direction.

Your eyes are an important safety tool when riding your bike.  Watch other drivers closely to make sure they have seen you and your arm signal.