I am about to start riding my bike on the street what are somethings I should know?

D.R.S. Everything that everyone is telling you is right on point, minus one. Look at it this way. You are putting your life in your hands. Resist the temptation to go cheap on anything related to your safety. Its one of those things if you need it, its crucial. Unless you ride a bike and circumstances jump out in front of you, the thought of great brakes are a given. When those brakes work the way you think and you remain in one piece to live for another day, then..thank God! When it comes to helmets, lights, bike, tires, the whole kit purchase what you can afford to the best of your ability Know your local rights. Be respectful to others in print and in person, courtesy goes a long way. If you don't remember anything else stated, read, read, read about everything. A lot of things sound right, a lot of people seem like they know what they are talking about. If you read, you will be able to better tell how good the advice, and how knowledgeable the person. Have fun and be careful. Best.

You need to know all the same things as a driver of an automobile and follow the same rules of the road. Never trust that a driver of an auto will recognize that you share the road or that they will follow traffic laws.

Ok, a helmet is needed the most (apart from a bike,lol) when you turn a corner place the hand you are turning with out to your side: EG, turning left, left hand sticks out to side. When it's dark, place some lights on the bike at the front and back, you could also wear a florescent coat which would help. Just always look at corners for other vehicles and slow down at crossroads and stuff like that. Good luck.

OK yes bring a helmet! DRIVERS ARE IDIOTS! They do not obey the rules and usually do not pay attention 2 bikes. I don't know the laws in California but in Idaho bikes have the right away. They always get to go first. When turning put your arm out to the direction you are turning. Also in Idaho bikes do not have to stop at stop signs. They have to slow down but if there is no cars they do not have to stop. Also obey traffic laws. You are responsible for yourself. Always believe that the cars cannot see you and pay attention. You can die by getting hit by a car. Also riding a bike on the sidewalk is illegal but I doubt the cops are going to give you a ticket for riding a bike on the sidewalk.

Ok i'm going to go ahead and answer these one at a time. Rules: Always ride opposite to direction of traffic so you can see if a car is coming. If a cop asks to search your bike you can always refuse and ask that he gets a warrant. Yes you need a helmet or you can get fined. Left or right turns vary at interceptions depending on which way is closest to the ball. Don't go on the sidewalk that's illegal.