Uber is collaborating with LACBC, Los Angeles Councilmember Mike Bonin, MADD, Los Angeles County, DUI Task Force, the Glendora Police Department, and a number of organizations to spread the message how to make the Fourth of July Weekend a safe one.
While most of the focus goes towards drivers, cyclists need to be aware of the dangers of drinking and riding, too. LACBC has some tips to share so that you make it home safely to your loved ones too.
Don’t ride your bike when drunk. Choosing not to drive after drinking is a good move, but choosing NOT to ride a bike is a good move too.
In 2013, one-fifth of the bicyclists killed in the U.S. had a BAC of .08 or greater.*
Riding a bike to go out drinking might seem like a more responsible choice, but you’re more likely to hurt yourself in a crash, or worse.
Also, you can be arrested for riding a bike drunk. It’s considered a DUI in California, just like driving drunk.
Instead of riding your bike while intoxicated, get a ride.
Ask a sober friend with a car to take you home.
Take the bus or transit.
Keep in mind that transit use can be higher on holidays, so the bus racks may be taken or there might not be room for your bike on the train.
Be prepared to properly lock your bike and retrieve it later. You have a good lock, right?
If you’re celebrating the 4th of July at a friend’s house, just stay there for the night or leave the bike with your friend if you must go home.
Call a cab or an Uber driver.
Let them know you need a vehicle that can also take a bike.
Make sure you know how to remove the front wheel from your bike (so it can fit inside the vehicle or in the trunk).
Again, be prepared to leave your bike locked up and get it later.
*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration “Traffic Safety Facts: Bicyclists and other Cyclists” May 2015 (DOT HS 812 151)