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As more people take to the roads during back-to-school–whether behind the wheel or on two wheels–safety is a top priority. Both drivers and cyclists need to equip themselves with the right gear to protect themselves and others.
Here are some of the must-have safety items for motorists and bikers.
For Drivers:
A well-maintained vehicle is the foundation of driving safety. Be sure to keep up with regular inspections, oil changes, and other recommended maintenance to ensure your car is in optimal working condition. Beyond that, there are some key safety items to consider:
- Be prepared for roadside emergencies. Start with a well-outfitted roadside kit that includes jumper cables (or portable battery charger), flares, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
- Don’t get stranded with a flat tire. Make sure your car has a vehicle jack and spare tire ready for use. Check tread depth and inflation. Look for cracks or bulges that indicate it’s time to replace the spare tire.
- Get the right tools for a fast escape. Keep an emergency hammer and escape tool in your glovebox. Make sure to get one that works for laminated glass. These two-in-one safety accessories enable you to slice through your car’s window and cut through a seatbelt to escape your car on land or submerged in water.
- Power up! Always stay charged with a portable cellphone battery charger. Or invest in a power bank that may be used with plug-in accessories such as a laptop computer. Know that you can rely on your phone in case of an emergency with a portable battery charger in case your car stops working or you need to leave your vehicle.
- Stay warm and dry. When driving during unpredictable weather, a blanket is always good to have on hand. Whether it’s to keep you warm if you’re stranded during a snowstorm or a cushion between you and the ground if you have to change a flat tire.
- Protect yourself from false claims. Dashcams can provide crucial video evidence in the event of an accident, protecting you and documenting what really happened.
- Get a grip on the road. Invest in all-season tires to maximize grip and handling, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
For Cyclists:
Autumn is one of the most pleasant times of year to take a ride along your favorite trails. Roadways also are filled with students navigating busy streets and crosswalks.
Cyclists are inherently more vulnerable on the road, so the right safety gear is absolutely essential. Here are some essential safety gear for all cyclists:
- A properly-fitted helmet. This is the single most important piece of safety equipment, proven to dramatically reduce the risk of head injury in a crash.
- Bright, reflective clothing. Wearing neon, fluorescent, or clothes with reflective elements helps you stand out to drivers, especially in low-light conditions. Taking your safety one step further and using a full-visibility reflective vest.
- Front and rear bike lights. These help you see the road ahead and be seen by others, day or night.
- A bike bell. The classic “on your left” verbal cue is often effective when navigating pedestrians. When it comes to riding near vehicles, audible signals like a bike bell to alert drivers to your presence and help prevent accidents.
- Reflective mirror. Riding on city streets need to be aware of what is behind them as well as what’s in front of them. Attach a small reflective mirror to one of your bike’s handlebars.
- Sunglass lenses. The choice comes down to polarized or photochromic lenses. Time of day and weather conditions make a difference. Polarized lenses are great for reducing glare, especially on sunny days. Photochromic lenses are better for environments with varying light intensities.
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