All about helmets!

A bike helmet that fits you properly will feel better — and do its job in case of a crash. But how do you select the right size bike helmet?

To find your bike helmet size, measure the circumference of your head using a cloth tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Be sure to measure horizontally across your brow and over your ears. Most helmets come with a size guide (or you can find one online), so make sure to measure your head before you go to save some time!

You also want to look for a helmet that matches your style of riding. Road bike helmets are designed to be lightweight, well ventilated and aerodynamic. Mountain bike helmets often offer extended rear head coverage to account for collisions with objects on off-road trails. If you’re an everyday commuter or recreational rider, look for helmets that are well-ventilated with an adjustable tightening wheel and visor to help shield some sun.

Get the right fit

Put your helmet level on your head (not tilted back) with the front edge two fingers above your eyebrows. This helps protect your forehead.

If your helmet has one, tighten the rear adjustment dial until the helmet no longer wobbles or slips. It’s important to have your helmet properly positioned before tightening it.

Next buckle the chin strap. The straps should join right under your ear to form a “V”. Adjust the straps around both ears so they are not twisted and it’s comfortable. You can use your pointer and middle fingers to form a “V” around your ears to figure out the best position — snug but not too tight. Put those same two fingers together and put them between the strap and your chin. There should be enough room for two fingers. Any tighter and you may have trouble breathing, talking or drinking water while riding, any looser and your helmet can easily be knocked to the side.

A helmet that fits correctly should be comfortable and will not move forward (obscuring your vision) or backward (exposing your forehead.) A comfortable helmet is a helmet that you’ll actually wear!

Learn more tips on our Resources Page.

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Get ready for a ride with your ABCs!

We’ve all had this happen — you get dressed, you put your helmet on, make sure your lights are charged, and as soon as you roll your bike out the door you notice the tires are flat. Or even worse, you get halfway to your destination and notice that you’re losing air — or your brakes are squeaking.

Familiarizing yourself with basic bike maintenance will help you whether you’re commuting to work every day or riding recreationally, and will help keep you safe. And the first part is as simple as knowing your ABCs! Performing the ABC Quick Check before heading out on your ride ensures your bike is safe to ride, and helps you notice when anything might go wrong.

A is for Air

Make sure your tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the side of the tire

When your tires are correctly inflated, use your thumb to gently push on the outside edge and feel the pressure. This will help you quickly gauge if you need air in the future!

Check for damage on your tire and replace if it is too worn

B is for Brakes

Inspect your brake pads for wear, replace if there is less than 1/4″ of pad left

Check pad adjustment and make sure they don’t rub the tire

Look to see that you can fit your thumb between the brake lever and handlebar when the brakes are squeezed all the way — this means they’re properly adjusted

C is for Cranks and Chain

Pull on your cranks/pedals away from the bike — if they are loose, tighten the bolt.

Check that your chain is free of rust, gunk and any debris

Quick is for Quick Releases

Make sure all your quick release levers are closed (check your wheels and seat!)

They should all be pointing down and towards the back of your bike, so they don’t get caught on anything.

And then CHECK it all over!

Take a quick roll around to make sure everything is working properly, and if you’re carrying any cargo that you’re well balanced.

More of a visual learner? Check out this video from our friends at the League of American Bicyclists:

Learn more tips on our Resources Page.

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Lime to Demo New Industry Leading Gen4 Shared Electric Bicycles in Savannah

Lime will host a series of three demonstrations of its latest model e-bike in Savannah on Thursday, September 22nd, and Friday, September 23rd. The City of Savannah has graciously given Lime permission to provide a preview of the shared electric bicycles it could provide residents and visitors if and when a pilot program does occur. The demos will be conducted in conjunction with Chatham Area Transit (CAT), and Georgia Southern and will take place in three locations throughout the City. Members of the media are invited to attend and test ride the vehicles themselves. 

Lime, the world’s largest provider of shared electric vehicles,  aims to familiarize residents with its vehicles and services, offering a glimpse at what a micromobility program could entail in Savannah. Lime will discuss and demonstrate proper parking etiquette, safe riding techniques, where to ride on the street, and how to be respectful of other road users. For first-time and inexperienced riders, Lime’s team will offer its signature First Ride Academy safety course. Lime is excited to demonstrate its vehicles and thrilled about the possibility of a successful micromobility program here in Savannah, especially given the City’s post-covid transportation needs. The demonstrations will be conducted in close proximity to public transit and historic Georgia Southern. 

The demonstrations will be held at the following times and locations: 

  • September 22, 9 AM – 12 PM: Ellis Square, Downtown Savannah
  • September 22, 1 PM – 4 PM: Georgia Southern University Armstrong Campus in Savannah Bookstore
  • September 23, 9 AM – 12 PM: Chatham Area Transit, Joseph Murray Rivers Jr. Intermodal Transit Center located at the corner of Fahm Street and W. Oglethorpe Ave

“Chatham Area Transit is excited to partner with the City of Savannah and Georgia Southern University to bring a live-action electric bicycle  demonstration to parts of Chatham County.  We are sure these electric bicycles will be a big hit to those who try them out this week,” said A’riel Johnson, Public Information Officer and Communications Manager. 

Lime offers shared electric vehicles in more than 250 cities globally and its riders have completed more than 350 million trips, replacing more than an estimated 80 million car trips. Lime’s mission is to build a future where transportation is shared, affordable and carbon-free, and focuses on decarbonizing urban mobility and helping cities reduce reliance on cars. Lime e-bikes offer the potential to fill the need for affordable and sustainable transportation. Lime helps to provide easy, affordable options for commutes, local travel, and curbside pickups–helping to reconnect people and communities.

Driving Safely around People Biking

Savannah’s level topography, dense urban form, and warm weather make it a great place to get around by bike. However, Savannah also has a high rate of traffic crashes involving people on bikes.

Tips for Safe Driving Near Bicyclists

React to bicyclists as you would any other vehicle. You wouldn’t drive inches next to another car, so why would you drive so close to a person on a bike?

Don’t park in bike lanes or blocking access to multiuse paths. It may just be “for a minute”, but that minute could be the difference in someone biking safely to their destination and being put in unnecessary conflict with another driver.

If there is oncoming traffic, slow down and wait to pass until traffic clears.

  • Check for bicyclists in your blind spots
  • When driving a larger vehicle, allow extra room for mirrors, extended wheel wells, trailers, etc.
  • Large profile vehicles can create a windblast, which can knock a bicyclist off the road
  • Return to your lane when the bicyclist is in your rearview mirror
  • Do not attempt to “squeeze by”

Do not past a bicyclist before a red light or stop sign, hill, or immediately before you make a right turn.

Give at least 3 feet of space! According to the updated 3 ft to pass law, updated July 2021:

  • A driver passing a person on a bike should change lanes if road and traffic conditions allow
    • Includes allowance to pass on a double yellow when conditions are safe to do so
    • No passing into blind turns, blind hills, or oncoming traffic
  • When it is not safe to change lanes, a driver is required to slow down to 25 mph or 10 mph below the posted speed limit, whichever is greater, to execute a safe pass within the lane and shared space
  • Violations of the law carry a maximum fine of $250 as a misdemeanor offense
  • Under Georgia law, a video recording of an act is valid as a witness for enforcement of violations

Don’t drive distracted or under the influence. Again, it’s the law!

Consider driving conditions. Whether it’s raining or sunny, there’s something happening that can influence your driving. Make sure to slow down or give yourself extra room if you need it, and consider pulling over rather than powering through if conditions are dangerous.

Avoid illegal courtesies, like encouraging someone to ride through a stop sign in front of you. They may be able to see further down the street than you, or may take more time to get rolling, which can cause everyone to get frustrated.

Know where kids are biking. Children may not know the rules of the road so slow down and pay extra attention when driving in areas where children can be expected.

Interested in learning more about being a Bicycle and Pedestrian Friendly Driver? Sign up for an upcoming class or view our webinar here!

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

CORE MPO Solicits Feedback for 2050 MTP

The Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO) is in the process of developing the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) for the Savannah metropolitan region. The 2050 MTP, called Moving Forward Together 2050, is a comprehensive “blueprint” for the Savannah region’s transportation improvements aimed at meeting mobility needs through the next 20+ years.

Public involvement is crucial in the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan update! You are the transportation system users and all the decisions made will affect your everyday life. The CORE MPO need your input on updating the 2050 MTP. Your input will provide recommendations that reflect real world solutions to improve the overall quality of life for you and other residents in the region.

Surveys are now open in English, Spanish and Chinese. The survey should take approximately 10 minutes to complete, and responses will remain anonymous. The survey is split into multiple sections, covering roadways, bicycling, pedestrians, public transportation, equity, and resiliency.

Make sure to take the survey now, and share with your friends! The survey will remain open through Oct. 31.

A variety of public meetings will also take place to solicit feedback and give you the opportunity to speak directly with the CORE MPO transportation planners.

  •  September 12, 6 p.m. (In-person) First African Baptist Church, 23 Montgomery St, Savannah, GA 31401
  •  September 13, 11 a.m. (Virtual) https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86713926236
  •  September 19, 6 p.m. (Virtual) https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84940194921
  •  September 20, 5 p.m. (In-person) Effingham County Ga Administrative Complex, 804 S. Laurel St, Springfield, GA 31329
  •  September 20, 5:30 p.m. (In-person) Richmond Hill City Hall, CC Chambers, 40 Richard Davis Dr, Richmond Hill, GA 31324
  •  More public meetings coming in October!

Click here to take the 2050 MTP Survey!

Driving Safely around People Walking

It’s important to remember that we’re all people — and at some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian.

Unfortunately pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high, especially in Savannah. When you maintain safe speeds and practice other safe driving behaviors, our streets are safer for everyone!

Most at Risk

  • Seniors 65+
  • Kids ages 5-9
  • People under the influence

You never know who may cross your path unexpectedly, so by taking steps to be prepared and constantly paying attention, you can make sure everyone gets from where they are to where they need to be safely — including you!

Tips for how to avoid crashes involving pedestrians:

Know where people are. Does the street you’re on have sidewalks and activated crosswalks, or are people going to be forced to walk in the street or cross unexpectedly? Are there bus stops?

Do not pass stopped school buses. It’s not only the law, but stopped school buses create opportunities where kids or adults may be unexpectedly entering the roadway.

Slow down for crosswalks, regardless of if there are pedestrians. When you approach, give right-of-way to pedestrians who are waiting or in the crosswalk. Stop far enough away to indicate your intent. Scan the street before turning, as there may be someone waiting to cross on the street you’re turning onto. And remember, any intersection — whether marked or unmarked — is a space where pedestrians are legally allowed to cross.

Practice driveway safety. When we’re leaving our home or coming home is a very dangerous time for drivers. You may be distracted by opening your garage door, putting on your seatbelt, remembering your coffee, and might not be looking for kids or people walking behind your vehicle. Make sure to pay attention! Similarly, be aware when you’re in parking lots and pulling in or out of spaces.

Don’t drive distracted or under the influence. Again, it’s the law!

Consider driving conditions. Whether it’s raining or sunny, there’s something happening that can influence your driving. Make sure to slow down or give yourself extra room if you need it, and consider pulling over rather than powering through if conditions are dangerous.

Stay alert for pedestrians who may need more space. Did you notice that the street may not have sidewalks or ramps to get on those sidewalks? Do you see a pedestrian using a mobility device like a motorized wheelchair or cane, or maybe a family with small children? Make sure to give them some extra room!

Ultimately, SLOW DOWN.

Interested in learning more about being a Bicycle and Pedestrian Friendly Driver? Sign up for an upcoming class or view our webinar here!

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Making your trip with Chatham Area Transit!

Combining your biking or walking trip with public transit can help make your trip more successful. Chatham Area Transit offers a lot of options to extend your trip and help you go the distance.

All of CAT’s fixed-route buses are equipped with bike racks so you can take your bike with you at no extra cost. No special passes or training are required, and each rack can hold up to two conventional bicycles so they are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Learn more about using the bike rack on the front of CAT buses by visiting their website.

Want to plan your route, but you’re not sure where your closest stop is located — or where the route goes? Check out the CAT Tracker to view stops near you and see up to the minute information on when the next bus is going to arrive.

Extend your route downtown — for free! Thanks to a partnership with the City of Savannah, CAT operates a free downtown transit system spanning land and water.

While biking downtown might be easy, it’s a little difficult to get across the Savannah River! The Savannah Belles Ferry system provides free passage across the River between the riverwalk and Hutchinson Island from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, and bikes are allowed.

As always, make sure to follow our biking and walking tips to make your trip as safe as possible! Visit our Resources page for more information.

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Walking Safely in Savannah

The greater downtown area is known for its walkability – but do you know the rules of the road?

Below are our tips for walking safely in Savannah, as well as applicable laws.

Safety Tips

  • Be predictable, and follow the rules of the road.
  • Walk on sidewalks when available and passable.
  • If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
  • Be alert! Never assume a driver sees you.
  • Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions.
  • If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; if you are crossing a multi-lane road, use extra caution when crossing each lane.
  • Watch for drivers entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.

The Laws

Pedestrians crossing at any point other than a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles on the roadway.

When a pedestrian signal says WALK, you may proceed across the roadway. When it is flashing DON’T WALK, finish your crossing and do not start crossing if you have not entered the roadway. When it is steady DON’T WALK, do not start crossing.

“Crosswalk” means (A) That part of a roadway at an intersection included within the connections of the lateral lines of the sidewalks on opposite sides of the highway measured from the curbs or in the absence of curbs, from the edges of the traversable roadway; or (B) Any portion of a roadway at an intersection or elsewhere distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface.

Crosswalks exists at most intersections whether or not they are marked by painted lines.

“Jaywalking” is not a legal term and does not appear in the Georgia Code. Even so, people often use “jaywalking” to describe a pedestrian crossing outside of a crosswalk. In fact, crossing the street outside of a crosswalk is perfectly LEGAL in most places, as long as the pedestrians yield to traffic.

Do not suddenly leave a curb or sidewalk and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close it is impractical for the driver to yield.

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

What to do if you’re in a crash

If you have the misfortune of being involved in a crash, it can be overwhelming and you may not know what to do. When your blood is pumping, your mind is racing, and you may be injured, the last thing you want to do is have to Google what to do. Below are our steps for the best actions to take after a collision.

Before we start, we always recommend carrying your cell phone, ID, a listed emergency contact, and something to write with/on in case your phone is broken. A bracelet like a RoadID can provide your information, emergency contacts and allergy information if needed.

  1. Do not immediately move – you may be more injured than you think. 
  2. Dial 911. Request the police and an ambulance to your location. 
  3. Leave your bike in the same state it was after the crash. Take pictures of the scene, including your bike, any damage to yourself, damage to the motor vehicle, and license plate number.
  4. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
  5. Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report.
  6. Get the business card of the officer. Write your report number on the card in addition to getting a copy.
  7. Immediately seek medical attention. When in doubt, go to the ER! 
  8. Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle at the scene of the crash, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and their insurance and contact information, along with the names and contacts of any passengers. You may discover additional injuries or destruction to property after the crash.
  9. Make no statement to insurance until you talk to a lawyer. 

Involved in a crash or want to report a close call? Submit your report on our website.

Data collected from the Close Call form can help us and agency partners assess potential conflict points and the frequency of near misses (or unreported crashes) involving bicyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicle drivers. Bicycle and pedestrian related crashes are under reported and this offers another way to address persistent issues. 

If you have encountered a dangerous road hazard call 311 or visit our Report Hazards and Issues page. In an emergency, please call 911.

Riding bikes comes with risks — like all vehicles. If you have been in a crash involving a bicycle and aren’t sure where to begin, contact the Law Offices of Joseph J. Steffen, Jr. for a free consultation.

Joseph J. Steffen Jr is an avid cyclist who specializes in local bicycle law, and serves on the board of Bike Walk Savannah. His focus and passion is for safe cycling for you and your family here in the Southeast, knowing the challenges of working with police officers on their reports, and picking an unbiased jury panel at trial that will understand a cyclists right to SHARE THE ROAD.

Visit joesteffen.com/bicycle-law for more information.

This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Signaling & Scanning

You should always let others know when you are turning, changing lanes or stopping — both for safety reasons, and because it’s the law.

While cars and motorcycles have devices built in, like turn signals and brake lights, we have to rely on our arms to signal our intent on a bike.

Signaling

  • Left Turn: Fully extend your left arm out to the side.
  • Right Turn: Fully extend your right arm out to the side or bend your left arm up at a right angle with your hand flat. Both are legal signals, and depend on your level of comfort with which arm you use.
  • Slowing or Stopping: Extend your left arm at a right angle with your hand open and pointing down towards the ground.

Scanning

Scanning is the act of looking over your shoulder, and is a key part of riding anywhere. It helps communicate your intentions to others and also shows you what is happening behind or around you.

Pro Tip: It may be difficult to scan and maintain a straight line while riding. Start by practicing scanning on a stationary bike to see your range of motion. You may want to purchase a mirror to help if you have limited range. Once you start practicing on a moving bike, if you have trouble maintaining a straight line you may want to try removing your hand (from the direction you are scanning) from the handlebars and place it on your lower back. This helps prevent your body from fully turning and pulling the handlebars. And make sure to keep peddling while scanning!

Scanning should be used in conjunction with signaling — you should scan before any turn and before making any signal.

This blog post is sponsored in part by a generous grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.