Bike Safety Photo Contest
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) recently announced that they are sponsoring a photo contest for bicycle riders and walkers to illustrate how they safely enjoy the great outdoors. The contest is meant to encourage bicyclists and pedestrians to “go safely.”
The OTS is the administrator of traffic safety grants that are aimed at delivering innovative programs that have the goal of eliminating injuries and traffic fatalities that occur on California roadways. The department is governed by the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA).
Some of the safety features that contestants may want to include in their photographs are helmets and reflective vests. The director of the OTS, Barbara Rooney, suggests taking a picture in your safety gear before you head out, or at a pit stop during your travels. Photo entries will be judged based on their depiction of the proper use of safety equipment, the relevance of the photographs, the clarity of bicycle/pedestrian safety measures, as well as originality, creativity, and artistic quality.
Contest Instructions
- The contest is for those 18 years of age or older.
- View the introductory video on safety, which can be found on the “Go Safely, California” website. Make a note of the word codes (three) that are featured in the video.
- Snap a photo or prepare a photo collage of no more than four photographs that show measures you are taking to be safe on your walk or bike ride.
- Complete the Agreement Form and email it to [email protected]. Afterward, submit your photograph(s) and the Agreement Form on the entry page for the contest.
Awards
Five laptops will be given away as awards. The laptops have been donated by iHeart Media.
Contest Deadline
The deadline for entries is October 23, 2020. Winners will be announced on October 30, 2020, on the “Go Safely, California” website.
To further read about the rules of the contest, go here.
Ideas for Bicycle Safety Equipment
Not all of the following ideas about bicycle safety equipment will translate into a photograph, but it is a good idea to include them in your next long bicycle ride anyway.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk or severity of head injuries and TBI.
- When bicycling in the dark, use reflective gear, tape, and accessories to increase your visibility.
- Carry a patch kit, tire pump, and spare tube.
- Include a filled water bottle in your cage to safely hydrate.
- Equip your bicycle with a white front headlight and a red rear reflector or light.
- Always carry your identification card and any pertinent medical alert information.
- Bring your cell phone in case of an emergency and so you have a phone to document incidents.
- Wear protective and shatter-resistant eyewear.
- Bicycling gloves can help protect your hands in the event of a crash.
- Equip your bike or helmet with a rearview mirror so you can see trailing vehicles and improve your overall awareness.
- Bring a secure bike lock.
- Reflective Tagsleg bands will increase visibility and keep long pants free from the bike chain.
- Equip your bike with a bell or horn to alert others of your approach. This is especially important on trails.
- Carry a multi-tool that can assist with basic repairs. For some bikes, a crescent wrench will be helpful when fixing a flat.
Watch the YouTube video featuring gear for safe cycling.
Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Hello and thank you for reading. I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento, California bicycle accident lawyer. Collisions between a bicyclist and a motor vehicle can cause severe trauma and injuries to the rider. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent vehicle operator, my firm is available to provide free and friendly advice. Call us at (916) 921-6400, or if you are outside the 916 area code, dial (800) 404-5400. If you prefer, you may also complete our online form.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/helmets-sport-bicycle-biking-1615613/
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