Westborough Police Issue Bicycle Safety Tips

WESTBOROUGH, MA - In their ongoing efforts to educate the public on bicycle safety, the Westborough Police Department (WPD) issued a list of tips residents should abide by when on the roads.

"There are two main types of crashes," the WPD sad. "The most common (falls), and the most serious (the ones with cars)." Regardless of how someone gets into an accident, prevention is key. Westborough Police urge cyclists to consider the following before going out:

• Ride a bike that fits you - if it's too big, it's harder to control the bike.
• Ride a bike that works - a cyclist can be the most adept on the road, but none of that will matter if brakes fail or wheels pop.
• Equipment like a bike helmet, high-visibility and reflective clothing and a white front light and red rear light should be a staple before heading out.
• Plan out your route.
• Ride defensively.
• Ride with the flow, in the same direction as traffic.
• Obey street signs.
• Assume the other drivers don't see you.
• No texting, listening to music or anything else distracting.