14 Mar Bike Messenger Safety

Bike Messenger Safety

Bike messengers work in busy environments where they regularly interact with cars, trucks, buses, pedestrians, construction zones, and changing roadway conditions. Safe riding requires proper protective equipment, a well-maintained bicycle, compliance with traffic laws, and constant awareness of surrounding hazards.

Wear a Helmet

Always wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet. A helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injury during a collision or fall.

• Position the helmet level on your head, not tilted backward.
• Adjust it so it fits snugly without excessive movement.
• Secure the chin strap properly.
• Replace a helmet after a significant impact or when damaged, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Follow Traffic Laws

Bicycle messengers must follow applicable state and local traffic laws.

• Obey traffic lights, stop signs, lane markings, and other traffic-control devices.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Use appropriate lanes and bicycle facilities where required or available.
• Maintain a safe speed for traffic, weather, and roadway conditions.
• Never hold onto a moving vehicle for a tow or “skitch” a ride.
• Use hand signals to communicate turns and other movements.

Sidewalk riding and bicycle equipment requirements vary by location, so follow applicable local requirements.

Ride Defensively

Never assume that motorists or pedestrians see you or know what you intend to do.

• Maintain adequate space from vehicles and pedestrians.
• Watch for vehicles turning across your path.
• Be especially cautious at intersections and driveways.
• Watch parked vehicles for doors that may suddenly open.
• Look ahead for potholes, debris, wet pavement, construction, tracks, and uneven surfaces.
• Avoid riding in vehicle blind spots.
• Keep both hands available for steering and braking whenever possible.
• Avoid distractions such as texting or using handheld devices while riding.

When crossing railroad, trolley, or streetcar tracks, approach them carefully to prevent a wheel from becoming caught.

Be Visible

Visibility is critical, especially at night, during poor weather, or in heavy traffic.

Use required headlights, taillights, and reflectors, and make sure they are clean and functioning. Wear bright or reflective clothing when practical and use a bell or other warning device where required or appropriate.

Never rely solely on lights or reflective clothing—ride as though other road users have not seen you.

Inspect Your Bicycle

Perform a basic safety check before beginning work. Check:

• Brakes for proper operation.
• Tires for inflation, damage, and excessive wear.
• Wheels for secure attachment and proper condition.
• Chain and drivetrain.
• Handlebars and steering.
• Lights and reflectors.
• Cargo racks, bags, or carriers.

Secure packages so they cannot shift, interfere with steering or braking, or become caught in the wheels.

Weather and Environmental Hazards

Bike messengers may work in heat, cold, rain, wind, and direct sunlight.

Stay hydrated, dress appropriately for conditions, and use sunscreen and UV-protective eyewear when necessary. Wet pavement, painted roadway markings, metal surfaces, leaves, and ice can significantly reduce traction, so slow down when conditions require it.

Take breaks as needed to prevent fatigue, heat illness, or cold stress.

Remember

Fast delivery should never take priority over safe riding. Wear your helmet, obey traffic laws, stay visible, maintain your bicycle, secure your cargo, and ride defensively around vehicles and pedestrians.