Biking in traffic isn't as treacherous as it might seem. Cyclists rarely get mowed down by motorists from behind -- a common fear -- and in fact, most accidents don't involve motor vehicles at all.
The more common threats are often found where you might least expect them: on car-free paths filled with distracted pedestrians, dog walkers, in-line skaters and cyclists with varying skill levels.
Still, when bike riders do collide with a car, it's often serious. In 2009, 630 U.S. cyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles, according to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) (bicyclinginfo.org). Meanwhile, more than 500,000 cycling accidents result in a trip to the emergency room each year.
Common sense is your best defense when riding the roads:
Don't ride drunk. One-third of all cycling fatalities involved a legally intoxicated cyclist, according to cycling attorney and cyclist Bob Mionske.
Ride with traffic -- never against it -- as close as possible to the right.
Don't ride with headphones. Hearing the "click" of a car door could save you.
If you're still feeling anxious but want to reap the benefits of an efficient, inexpensive and healthy mode of transportation, here are some ways to reduce your risk of an accident:
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