Bike Safety 101

PaxVelo prioritizes the safety of all riders and requires strict adherence to the following rules and guidelines when participating in any club ride

1. Listen to the Ride Leaders Pre-ride brief: The ride leaders first job is to ensure everyone is aware of the route, possible hazards, and general guidelines for safety
2. Stay alert: In order to hear warnings and safety instructions, riders are required to keep at least one ear free from earbuds and/or headphones, Aftershockz style headphones are permitted with discretion that awareness of others and surroundings are paramount for the safety of you and your fellow ride mates
3. Announce approaching vehicles: When a vehicle approaches from the rear, cyclists at the back are encouraged to call out "Car Back". Upon hearing these warnings, it is the discretion of the ride leader to single up the group if it is safe
4. Warn of road hazards: Cyclists must call out potholes and other road hazards to alert fellow riders
5. Obey traffic laws: Riders must adhere to all traffic signs and signals. Do not blow red lights or stop signs.
6. Ride with traffic: Cyclists are required to ride in the direction of traffic at all times and may not cross solid yellow lines or enter oncoming traffic lanes with the exception of Point Lookout at the discretion of the ride leader

7. Wear a certified cycling helmet: All riders must wear a certified cycling helmet at all times during organized rides
8. Ride no more than two abreast: Riders must not exceed two cyclists riding abreast and should allow cars behind to pass when possible
9. Announce intentions: It is important for cyclists to communicate their intentions to other riders by calling out when slowing down, changing lanes, or stopping.
10. Use hand signals: Use appropriate hand signals when necessary, especially when indicating a turn or slowing down
11. Pass on the left: When passing other cyclists, always do so on the left and avoid passing on the right.
12. Announce approaching pedestrians: When cyclists are about to pass pedestrians or other cyclists, they must announce "On your left" to alert them.
13. Priority to safety: Ride defensively, make informed safety decisions, and demonstrate courteous behavior towards other cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists alike, maintaining a "Share the Road" mentality at all times.

All participants in PAXVELO sponsored rides must understand and adhere to these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for every rider involved.