GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt Joint Union Elementary School District addressed the Galt community in its September newsletter, released Aug. 29, about bike and scooter safety due to a recent increase in related accidents over the last six months.

The district provided bike safety tips and noted that the Galt Police Department will be providing bike safety presentations at schools this month. The newsletter stated that if a student needs a bike helmet, parents can contact their child’s school.

Important information to consider is that all bicyclists under the age of 18 are legally required to wear a properly fitted helmet. Bicycles are vehicles and must obey traffic signs, signals and road rules.

Bicyclists are to always ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or designated bike routes whenever they are available.

Before entering a street or intersection, bicyclists must stop, look both ways and make eye contact with drivers to ensure that they are seen before crossing. Distractions like headphones and cell phones while riding should also be avoided. It is advised to stay alert for road obstacles such as potholes, sewer grates, sand, gravel and car doors opening.