Right on the heels of our Board member's close call in Roswell, Savannah area advocates are coming to terms with a tragic bicycle crash on Sunday. They do an excellent job of focusing on the benefits of cycling and the simple things you can do to make your rides are safe.

We'll reiterate their points here: Bicycling is a safe and enjoyable activity, especially if you ride legally and use common sense.

• Be VISIBLE
  • Use reflective, bright clothing and always use headlights and tailights in low-light conditions

• Be PREDICTABLE
  • Flow with traffic, don't weave, and signal your intentions
• Be DEFENSIVE
  • Know that you can be difficult to see, even in good conditions, and take the lane if you need to for safety
• Be LAW-ABIDING
  • Know your rights and responsibilities. Sharing the road takes mutual respect: stop at red lights and stop signs, and ride in the same direction as other traffic.