1) ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET
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Even if you're just cruising the bike path or touring the neighborhood. When shopping for a helmet, make sure it's designed specifically for bicycling and meets all current safety standards. Check out Schwinn "Helmet Safety Across America" for more information and tips.
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2) MAKE SURE YOUR BIKE IS THE RIGHT SIZE
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A bike too large or too small is difficult to control. When you're standing on the ground you should have a 1-3 inch gap between you and the top bar, a bit more for off-road riding.
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3) MAINTAIN YOUR BICYCLE
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Make sure that the brakes, derailleur (gear changers) and tires are in good condition. Take your bike to your local bike shop for an inspection if unsure.
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4) ALWAYS RIDE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD
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In most states, your bicycle is considered a vehicle when it's being ridden on the street. You should always ride on the right side of the road, just like you would in a car, even if you're just going a block or two.
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5) OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS
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In most states, your bicycle is considered a vehicle, which means you have the same right to the road as a car. This also means you must obey all traffic laws just like a car. Follow stop signs and stop lights, and learn and follow all traffic laws and signals.
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6) SIGNAL WHEN MAKING A TURN
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Let motorists know where you're going by using proper hand signals for turning and stopping.
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7) BE HIGHLY VISIBLE TO TRAFFIC AND OTHER CYCLISTS
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Sometimes it's hard for drivers to see bicyclists because we're smaller than cars. Always wear light colored clothing when you ride and try to get a brightly-colored helmet so you'll be easier to spot. If you're riding at night, always wear reflective clothing and make sure your bike is equipped with the proper reflectors and lighting.
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8) BE PREDICTABLE
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Don't do anything that would surprise the driver of a car. Don't swerve, weave in and out of traffic, run stop signs or stoplights.
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9) YIELD THE RIGHT-OF-WAY
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Cars have to slow down for walkers and so do bicycle riders. Keep your speed down when riding on a path, trail or sidewalk where you share the space with walkers or joggers. Make sure other people know you're coming so they don't suddenly stop in your path. Try adding a bell or horn to your bicycle or simply call out as your are approaching or passing.
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10) DON'T RIDE TOO CLOSE TO PARKED CARS
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cars can still be dangerous, even when they're parked. The driver may suddenly open the door in your path or pull out suddenly. Leave at least three feet of distance when passing parked cars and be alert for cars that may be pulling out onto the roadway or in front of you.
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11) DON'T FOOL AROUND
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Never hitch a ride on a moving vehicle or do stunts or wheelies on a road with cars or trucks. Never ride with more than one person a bike, unless the bike has more than one-seat/one-person to a seat (i.e. tandem bike).
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--Bicycling Magazine 
