10 Ways to Stay Safe On A Group Ride

  1. Be predictable. In a group, your actions affect those around you, not just yourself. Other riders expect you to continue straight, and at a constant speed. Signal your intention to turn, or slow down, before you do so.
  2. Use signals. Use hand signals to indicate turns and point out hazards. Use your left or right arm straight out to indicate a left or right turn. Use you left arm out and down with palm to the rear to indicate stopping.
  3. Give warnings. Ride leaders should call out right turns; left turns and stops in addition to signaling. Announce turns before the intersections to give other riders a chance to position themselves. Try to avoid sudden stops or turns - except for emergencies.
  4. Change positions correctly. When not riding single file, slower moving riders should stay to the right; faster riders to the left. Pass slower moving riders on the left; announce yourself as you pass other riders. Announce passes on the right loudly as this is a highly unusual maneuver.
  5. Announce hazards. Most riders do not have a full view of the road while riding in a group. Announce potholes and other hazards, so others can avoid them. As you call out the hazard, point to it.
  6. Watch for traffic from the rear. The last rider should frequently check for overtaking cars- buy a rearview mirror; it could save your life! Announce "car back" clearly and loudly. It is also helpful to announce "car up" on narrow roads or when riding two abreast.
  7. Watch out at intersections. The leader should announce slowing or stopping at intersections if necessary. Cyclists should not follow others through intersections without scanning. Each cyclist is responsible for checking cross traffic; if you must stop, then signal.
  8. Leave room for cars. Good relations with motorists are the responsibility of every cyclist.
  9. Stop off road. When stopping for mechanicals or regrouping, always move clear off the road. Only if conditions permit, should you move back onto the road as a group. Always yield to traffic in the roadway.
  10. Ride single file. It is illegal in some areas to ride more than two abreast; some communities require single file riding. When taking the lane, double up and take the whole lane; only experienced riders with a rearview mirror, should "take a lane".