Bicycling is an enjoyable way to burn calories and boost overall metabolism while improving muscle tone and cardiovascular health.

With cyclists and vehicles sharing the roads, it’s extremely important for cyclists to take extra precaution to avoid accidents.

Bicyclists are required to follow the same road rules as automobile drivers, including obeying traffic signs and lane markings.

Cyclists should ride with the flow of traffic, not against it.

Be visible by wearing bright colors and using bold hand signals to alert drivers about your intentions to make a turn.

Sidewalks may add extra safety for children, but adults darting into traffic become more of a hazard, so stay on the road when possible.

Be prepared for the unexpected such as a car door that may open in a line of parked vehicles, or a car suddenly pulling out of a driveway or parking space.

Bicycle-related injuries, including head injuries such as concussion and skull fractures, are on the rise, likely due to the use of texting or talking on cell phones while riding, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

If you need to use the phone, pull over and stop.

And remember that a properly fitting bike helmet can literally make the difference between life and death if you are in an accident.