Vehicle and Bike Safety

Vehicle Safety

• Park in well-lighted areas so you can see your car and its surroundings from a distance.
• Have your car keys ready, look around and under your car and observe other vehicles parked nearby for suspicious persons before approaching.
• Glance into the backseat and at the floorboards of your car before entering to check for anyone hiding inside.
• If you think someone is following you, do not go home. Drive to the nearest police station, fire station, open gas station, or well-lighted place where there are people that can help you.
• If you have car problems, raise the hood and tie a white cloth to the door handle to signal for help. Get back into the car and keep the doors and windows locked. If someone stops, ask them to call for help. Do not accept rides from anyone.

The Bicyclist:

• Ride your bicycle with traffic, not against it.
• Look behind you and use proper hand signals before making turns.
• Wear a helmet. Three of four serious bicycle accidents involve head injuries.
• Make eye contact with motorists making turns or entering the road in front of you.
• Scan the road ahead for hazards such as potholes (notorious in Buffalo) and drainage grates. Identify hazards in time to avoid
  them without swerving into traffic.
• Be aware that when a motorist passes you and begins to slow down, the car may be turning in front of you. Be prepared to yield.
• If you are in an accident, secure witnesses and be sure to report it to the police immediately.
• Wear light colored clothing. Add reflective materials at night to increase visibility.
• Use a headlight, taillight, and reflectors if you ride at night.

The Bicycle:

• Be sure to lock your bicycle to a stationary object with a heavy-duty lock and chain or U-shaped lock.
• If permitted, keep your bicycle in the residence hall.
• Register your bicycle with the University Police.