(Approved November 13, 2006)

Introduction

These rules apply to safety issues that are considered, by the Sumter Landing Bicycle Club (SLBC) membership, to be among the most critical and, if adhered to will significantly contribute to the safety of Club members.

However, the information presented herein is not a complete list of riding and safety rules. Members are encouraged to be familiar with all bicycling regulations and safe riding guidelines, as contained in various publications, including the Florida Uniform Traffic Control Law. Chapter 316. The Florida statute governs the operation of all vehicles operated on Florida public roads. A bicycle is considered to be a vehicle under Florida law.

Orderly, Predictable and Safe riding habits will enhance the motoring public's perception of bicyclists thereby contributing to community goodwill and enhancing the Club's public image.

 

COMPULSORY RIDING RULES

1.      Be a member of the SLBC or sign a waiver prior to the ride;

2.      Wear a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approved helmet;

3.      Following riders must never overlap the rear wheel of the rider in front;

4.      Leave a safe distance between you and the next bicycle (at 15 mph you travel 22 feet per second);

5.      Ride in single-file (exception: brief periods, in very low traffic areas);

6.      Ride as close as practical to the right edge of the roadway (usually within 3 feet);

7.      Pass another bicycle only on its left side. Call “on your left to the rider you are passing, also indicate the number of passing bicycles;

8.      Always use these standard turn signals:

·         Right turn: up-lifted left arm, or right arm horizontal pointing to the right,

·         Left turn: horizontal left arm pointing to the left,

·         Signal your intention to turn 100 feet prior to turning. Also state your intention verbally. For rider safety/control purposes, your signal need not be given continuously,

·         Slowing: Extend left arm down, open palm facing back and wave your arm in a wig-wag motion,

·         Stopping: Extend left arm down and open palm facing back.

9.      Turning, Slowing & Stopping: Prepare early! Be predictable! Declare your intention!

10.  Turning Left: Aggressively move to the left and control your turning lane (give sufficient early signal);

11.  Sound off on Danger: Audibly inform other riders of risks: e.g. “car back", “car up", “car left", “car right", etc. Indicate road hazards to other riders. Pass these warnings on up and down the line;

12.  Do not use any audio equipment (exception: hearing aid);

13.  Pets are not allowed on a Club-organized ride.

 

ENFORCEMENT OF COMPULSORY RIDING RULES

1.      A member is responsible to inform another member of h/her rule violations;

2.      If the member continues to not comply the matter will be referred to the Safety Committee for review;

3.      If a member seeks clarification to a rule he/she will submit a written memo to the Club's President for membership action at the next general meeting.

 

SUGGESTED SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND RIDING TECHNIQUES

1.      Please have a rear view mirror installed on your bicycle;

2.      Install front and rear lights if you plan to ride at night or in early morning fog conditions;

3.      Carry the name of a contact person, phone number and list of medications used;

4.      Inform the ride leader of physical or drug issues that you may have;

5.      Aero Bars (racing handlebars) should be used only when riding in the lead position in a group;

6.      Keep right pedal raised when immediately adjacent to an elevated curb;

7.      Keep inside pedal raised when coasting around a sharp bend in the road.