As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, many of us may feel the urge to dust off our bikes and hit the road. However, it's essential to remember that sharing the road with other vehicles can be challenging and, at times, dangerous. To ensure your ride stays safe, following a few precautions is crucial. By taking precautions, you can enjoy your time on your bike and minimize the risks associated with sharing the road with other vehicles.
1. Wear a Helmet
Protecting your head while riding a bike should be a top priority. Wearing a helmet can significantly decrease the risk of head and brain injuries by 65% to 88% and injuries to the upper and mid face by 65%. Regardless of your experience level, helmets are effective in providing protection for all types of crashes, whether or not they involve a motor vehicle.
2. Wear Reflective Materials
When it comes to biking safety, visibility is key. Accidents are more likely to occur when drivers can't see you, especially at intersections where your paths are likely to cross. Installing reflectors on your bike is a great step in the right direction, but it's not always enough to ensure your safety. Make it a priority to wear bright and/or reflective clothing to increase your visibility on the road.
Examples of reflective and bright gear can include:
- Reflective tape
- Reflective jackets and/or vests
- Reflective wrist and ankle bands
- Neon or fluorescent shirts, pants, etc.
3. Check Your Equipment
Bike accidents aren't always caused by negligent drivers or unexpected obstacles on the road. A significant number of crashes happen due to equipment malfunctions. Before setting off on your bike, it's crucial to take a few minutes to check your equipment. Properly inflated tires, functioning reflectors and lights, and defect-free chains and gears can make all the difference in preventing an accident.
A few equipment checks can include:
- Ensure the seat is at the proper height and locked in place
- Make sure your reflectors on all areas of the bike are secured
- Test that your horn, bells, lights, and other bike additions are working
Additionally, bringing along a small “fix-it” pack can ensure you aren’t stranded somewhere if malfunctions occur. Make sure to include a tire patch kit, bike pump, a multitool, chain tools and replacement chain link, duct tape, and a map.
4. Ride as If You’re Driving
When riding a bike, it’s important to remember that drivers are accustomed to the patterns and behaviors of larger vehicles on the road. While it may be tempting to weave in and out of traffic or cut across multiple lanes, doing so can be dangerous and catch drivers off guard. Instead, ride predictably by mimicking the behaviors of cars whenever possible. This means obeying traffic signals and using hand signals to communicate with others on the road. By acting like you’re driving a car, you can reduce the likelihood of an accident and keep yourself safe during your ride.
5. Stay in Dedicated Bike Lanes
In response to the growing interest in biking, cities and municipalities around the country have been implementing bike infrastructure, such as bike lanes, to promote cycling as a mode of transportation. While all kinds of bike lanes have been appearing, bike lanes can only keep riders safe when utilized properly. It is crucial for cyclists to use bike lanes whenever possible and to ride in the center to remain visible to drivers. Avoid riding too close to the side of the lane where drivers may accidentally side swipe you.
6. Ride With the Flow of Traffic
As a bicyclist, it's important to always ride with the flow of traffic. Going against the flow can put you at a higher risk of accidents and increase your chances of being at fault in the event of a crash. By riding in the same direction as other vehicles on the road, you can better anticipate traffic patterns and avoid collisions.
What to Do If You’re in a Bike Accident
If you find yourself in a bike accident, it's crucial to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Steps to take if you’re in a bike accident:
- Call 911
- Exchange names and insurance with the other driver(s)
- Take photos and videos of injuries and damage
- Seek medical attention
- Speak with a bicycle accident attorney
Bicycling is a popular form of transportation, exercise, and recreation, but it comes with inherent risks. When a bicyclist is hit by a car or truck, their body is unprotected from the trauma, which can lead to severe or fatal injuries.
If you were injured in a bike accident due to someone’s negligence, Belushin Law Firm, P.C. is here to help. Our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are prepared to fight for your compensation for the pain and suffering you faced after your accident.
Call us at (888) 918-9890 or contact us online for a consultation.