Bicycle Safety

The City of Sandy takes bike safety seriously.  As we build out dedicated bike lanes and other bike infrastructure to the city's transportation system, we strongly encourage citizens to brush up on their safety knowledge and help eliminate avoidable accidents in our community. The following page is dedicated to promoting bicycle safety at all levels, from identifying the rules of the road for cyclists and the motorists that share the road with them to directing you to local sources for bike safety gear.

Bike safety resources :

• Oregon State Law with regard to bicycles :
  • Bicycle Helmet Law ( ORS Chapter 814.485 & 814.486 ) - Oregon law requires any person under the age of 16 riding a bicycle or being carried on a bicycle to wear approved protective headgear.  As a parent or person with legal responsibility for the safety and welfare of a child, you will be held responsible.
  • ORS Chapter 811: Rules of the Road for Drivers - Bicycle section is from 811.005 through 811.065
  • ORS Chapter 814: Pedestrians; Passengers; Livestock; Motorized Wheelchairs; Vehicles with Fewer Than Four Wheels - Bicycle section is from 814.400 through 814.489.
  • Remember, Oregon law states that penalties for driving under the influence of intoxicants applies to bicyclists as well as motor vehicles operators.  See ORS Chapter 813 for additional information.
• Oregon Bike Manual - This free 32 page booklet was produced by the Oregon Department of Transportation and was most recently revised in 2010.
• Pedal Power: A Legal Guide for Oregon Bicyclists - This 2012 legal guide book for Oregon cyclists was written by Portland "bicycle attorney" Ray Thomas.  Brought to you by the Bicycle Transportation Alliance.

Where to Find Bike Safety Equipment : There are a number of retail businesses in the area that offer a broad selection of bike safety equipment for sale.  Please check out the following regional retailers for safety equipment outfitting:

• Otto's Ski & Mountain Bike Shop :  Otto's offers a variety of mid-range to higher end helmets and gloves, and also does daily rentals for helmets - even if you're not renting a bike from them.
• Sandy Bicycle :  Offers a wide variety of helmets including full face helmets, gloves, elbow pads and knee/shin guards.  Can order specialty safety equipment upon request.  Selection is seasonal.
• Fred Meyer :  Offers a variety of affordable helmets, gloves, lights, reflectors and child carrier seats
• Sandy Fire #72 :  The Sandy Fire District sells bike helmets on the third Thursday of every month - no appointment necessary - at their main station at 17460 Bruns Avenue in downtown Sandy.  They will also properly adjust the helmets for the rider so that they fit correctly prior to use.  Bike helmets for ages 1 and up are available for sale for $10 each.  All purpose outdoor recreation helmets also available.

Remember...when you bike

Pedestrians have the right of way - In the crosswalk or at an unmarked intersection, cyclists are required to stop for pedestrians. ( ORS 811.028 )

Be predictable - Ride with the flow of other vehicle traffic. ( ORS 814.400 )  Maintain a straight line of travel whenever possible.

Mind the signs and signals - Stop at stop signs and obey red lights, just like all other vehicles. ( ORS 811.260 )

Communication is key - Hand signals help other road users know where you’re headed.  Signal when you are able, but don’t sacrifice safety when two hands are needed to operate the brakes. ( ORS 814.440 )

Ride aware - Approach all intersections with caution.  Cyclists riding in a bike lane have the right of way, but turning vehicles may not see you.

Be seen, be safe - A front white light and a rear red reflector are required by law when riding at night or in low visibility conditions. ( ORS 815.280 )  In addition, we recommend a rear red light and bright or reflective clothing and accessories.

Keep an ear clear - Increase safety and communication by leaving one ear bud, or both, out when you ride.

...and when you drive

Pedestrians have the right of way - In the crosswalk or at an unmarked intersection, drivers are required to stop for pedestrians. ( ORS 811.028 )

Communication is key - Signaling your turns well in advance helps cyclists and other vehicles know where you’re headed. ( ORS 811.400 )  Law requires a signal at least 100 feet before you turn. ( ORS 811.335 )

Check before you turn - Get in the habit of checking your side-view mirror before every right turn in case a cyclist is overtaking on your right.

Mind the door zone - Take care when opening a door into the bike lane or street so as not to hit a passing bicycle rider with your door. ( ORS 811.490 )

Respect the bike lane - Motorists are required to yield to cyclists in bike lanes, so let them pass before turning or parking. ( ORS 811.050 ) Keep clear of a solid bike lane until you reach your intersection or where the lane becomes dashed. ( ORS 811.440 )

Give a little room - When passing a cyclist, five feet of distance is preferred while three feet is the minimum. ( ORS 811.065 )

Brought to you by our friends at the Portland Bureau of Transportation.