Washington Ranked Top Bicycle Friendly State

Washington State took the top spot in the annual Bicycle Friendly State ranking. The state ranked second in 2010 for bicycle friendly Legislation, third for Policies & Programs, second for Infrastructure and first for Education.

The Bicycle Friendly America ranking per state is organized by the League of American Bicyclists, a non-profit organization promoting wider and safer bicycle use across the country.

Apart from promoting bicycle use for commuting, the League has numerous useful tips for Snohomish bicyclists about bicycle commuting, maintenance, rules of the road, group riding, going downhill, nutrition, etc.

In a region with long nights in the winter, being seen in the dark is crucial to avoid serious bicycle accidents. The following tips will help you stay safe when cycling in the dark or inclement weather:

1.     Visibility: Make sure your bike has a white front light and a red rear light. All motorists know that red is back and white is front. Make sure the front light is not just to be seen, but also illuminates your path.

2.     Wattage: Inexpensive low-wattage lights simply make you visible. You might need a 45-watt halogen lighting system to see what's in front of you and avoid potholes, debris, etc. Most commuters use at least 10-watt systems with rechargeable batteries.

3.     Power sources: Simple AA batteries are cheap but need frequent replacement. Self-contained nickel-metal-hydride rechargeable batteries last longest.

4.     Helmet vs. bar mounted: Helmet mounted lights allow you to direct the beam to where you look, drawing the attention of other motorists, for instance. Bar mounted lights are closer to the pavement. It is best to have both.

5.     Rear lights: A red blinking light is far better than a reflector. Make sure your light doesn't point down or isn't obstructed by a bag or clothing.

At Monro Law Firm, we are dedicated to the safety of our clients. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by someone else, contact us now for a free consultation on your case.