Americans love getting out on their bikes for long, leisurely rides, strenuous exercise, and, increasingly, their daily commute: biking is fun, healthy, and often incredibly practical. The downside comes with the fact that cyclists are usually sharing the road with cars, putting them at risk of serious injury.
As we saddle up in celebration of the return to longer days and warmer weather, let’s also appreciate that May is National Bicycle Safety Month. Here are a few steps bicyclists can take to protect themselves on city streets and roadways.
Wear High-Visibility Clothing and Use Lights
To avoid you, motorists must be able to see you, so staying visible can significantly reduce accidents. Bright, reflective clothing ensures you’ll catch their eye, even in low-light conditions. Equipping your bicycle with a front white light and rear red light also helps with visibility, as does adding reflective strips to your helmet and bike frame. These small investments can dramatically improve your visibility on the road.
Use Bike Lanes Whenever Possible
Many cities have created designated bike lanes for a reason: they make for a safer environment for cyclists. Use these lanes whenever they’re available, as they provide a buffer between you and vehicular traffic. But remain vigilant when you do, since parked cars, distracted drivers, or opening doors can still present hazards, even within bike lanes.
Follow Traffic Laws
Many bicyclists don’t realize they’re expected to follow the rules of the road the same as motorists. Failing to do so causes more accidents because you’re appearing in places where motorists don’t expect you. Treat your bike the same as you would a car or truck and obey traffic signals, stop signs, and lane markings. Always ride in the direction of traffic and be predictable in your movements. Hand signals are essential for communicating your intentions to drivers, so make sure you use them for turns and stops.
Stay Focused and Anticipate Hazards
Vigilance is key when you’re sharing the road. Keep a sharp eye out for distracted drivers, sudden lane changes, or potential hazards like potholes and debris. Avoid wearing headphones or anything that may reduce your awareness of your surroundings. By staying alert, you’ll have more time to react to potential dangers.
Of course, accidents can happen to even the most cautious bicyclists, especially when motorists fail to share the road responsibly. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our personal injury attorneys can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
