The Duluth Police Department are still investigating an accident between a car and a bicyclist Wednesday afternoon. The cyclist sustained non-life threatening injuries. But in the meantime the Duluth Police Department is also giving tips on staying safe while biking on the roads or trails in the Northland.

Mattie Hjselseth the Public Information Officer with the DPD says cyclists can wear reflective lights for night biking. Also bikers can use hand traffic signals during the day to alert other motorists where they are turning.

“We recommend you to use a sidewalk or those designated bike lanes. But if that’s not possible, definitely if you’re on the roadways, go slow, make sure you do your signals and look both ways. If you’re crossing the intersections or anything, and then go with traffic,” Hjelseth said. “Try to always wear a helmet, because that does save lives. It’s just an easy thing to do.”

In their most recent study from 2020 the Minnesota Department of Public Safety says out of 394 fatal accidents, 10 involved cyclists.

Both bicyclists and motorists are equally responsible for the safety of people on bikes. Those behind the wheel should keep a minimum of three feet behind the cyclist on the road.

Denis Sauve, the owner of Twin Ports Cyclery, says when it comes to staying safe while biking be aware of your surroundings to prevent an accident.

“People want to assume that when they’re on the road, that’s car see them, not necessarily. They’ve come out with these various cameras in the back and all this sort of thing. But mainly it’s being seen,” Sauve said. “When I ride, I wear cycling clothes and bright stuff.”

Experts say bike safety starts at home with proper maintenance. Sauve says when it comes to Staying safe while biking an annual check-in whether its in the spring or fall helps ensure the bike doesn’t break down while riding it.

“The predominant thing is flat tires. A lot of people have so many flats,” Sauve said. “We look at inside of the tire and there’s a little piece of wire sticking through there. So they put another tube in, then they have a second flat right away.”

For bikers out on the trails, there are over 30 free bicycle tune-up stations in Minnesota state parks. Each station provides basic bike maintenance tools, including air pumps. The stations were purchased as part of the Pedal Minnesota initiative, which strives to make Minnesota the “Bike Friendliest State.” Here’s a list of the bike tune-up locations. Also here’s another story about how to find the right bike for you and your lifestyle.