Bicycle Safety
 

Oregon law requires that a bicycle helmet be worn by persons 15 years of age and under who operate or are passengers on a bicycle. We strongly suggest that all passengers and operators wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet when riding.

It is an indisputable fact that bike helmets greatly reduce the risk of serious head injuries while cycling.  Statistics are available which consistently prove the importance of wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet.  Statistics related to head injuries incurred while cycling are available by visiting the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control web site.  In order for a helmet to protect the wearer it needs to be adjusted properly.  Complete instructions on properly fitting a bicycle helmet can be found by visiting the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute.
 
 Always Wear a Helmet!!!!
 DO:

  • Obey all traffic regulations.
  • Stop and look both ways in order to make sure that side walks or streets are clear before you enter a street.
  • Walk your bicycle across busy streets at corners or crosswalks.

DON'T:

  • Show off.
  • Zigzag, race or stunt-ride in traffic.
  • Wear dark clothing at night.
  • Tailgate or ride too closely to cars or trucks.
  • Leave your helmet unbuckled (Its against the law).

Accidents involving bicycles are steadily increasing.

Major streets are the most dangerous. The peak traffic hours between 4:00 and 6:00 P.M. are the most dangerous and hazardous for cyclists.

Rules of the Road

  • Ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic
  • Ride single file
  • Stop at stop signs and traffic lights
  • Use hand signals for turns
  • Give the right of way to pedestrians
  • Give a clear warning (bell, horn, or voice) when needed for safety
  • Carry no passengers (except in an approved baby seat)
  • Park your bicycle out of the way of vehicle or pedestrian traffic
  • Your bicycle cannot be towed by a motor vehicle
  • Carry no bundles or packages except in a basket or on a rack
  • Keep one hand on the handle bars at all times
  • Equip your bike with front and rear reflectors, pedal reflectors, lights, and wear reflective material on both sides of your body
  • Do not adjust handle bars above your shoulders or alter the front of your bike
  • Do not ride on express or limited access highways
  • No person over 12 years of age shall operate any cycle or similar vehicle upon a sidewalk

Loss Prevention
STOP THIEF!
One of the best protections against bicycle theft is a chain and lock.  A 36" chain covered with vinyl or rubber and a high quality lock is recommended. When away from home lock your bike to an immovable object with the chain through both wheels and the frame of the bicycle.  Take your bicycle inside whenever possible.
   
Bicycle Registration

The Cottage Grove Police Department offers a free bicycle registration program. By registering your bicycle the Police Department will document your name, address and all the pertinent information regarding your bicycle.  In the unfortunate event of your bicycle becoming lost or stolen the information will be entered and permanently stored in a national data bank.  Simply come into the police station with your bike and ask to have it registered. Its free!

Parents, did you know?

Most parents know that every child under the age of sixteen must wear an approved helmet when riding a bicycle. As of January 1, 2004, the law was changed to extend to those children under sixteen who use roller blades, non-motorized scooters, and skateboards, as well as bicycles.  If a child is under twelve years of age, the law allows for the parent or guardian to be cited if the child is in violation. If the child is between twelve and fifteen years of age, either the parent or child may be cited.   

The traffic fine for a child under 16 not wearing a helmet is $77.00. The traffic citation can be issued to the child or the parent for endangering a bicycle rider. This is at the discretion of the officer.   

Motorized, gas powered, electric scooters fall under a different category. No one under the age of 16 can operate motorized, gas powered or electric scooters.  Read More.