Did you know that in 2015, there were an estimated 45,000 bicycle accidents in the U.S. alone? Bike safety should be the main priority of all road users.
When you ride a bike, don’t let this statistic include you. Follow these tips and stay safe.
Ride a Suitable Bike
Most of us will have been on a bike that is too big or too small at some point in our lives. This may have been humorous at the time, but it’s actually rather dangerous.
Picture yourself cycling down a steep hill towards a road. If something goes wrong, you will want to put your feet down. This will help stop you before anything dangerous occurs.
Now imagine if your feet don’t reach the floor. You could keep rolling yourself into danger.
Ensure your feet reach the floor when you ride a bicycle. It would be best if you also had a slight gap between you and the top bar of the bike.
Bike Safety Works Both Ways
The time of day shouldn’t matter when you ride your bike. Bicycle safety should take precedent over all else. You can do this by being visible.
Go out and buy some neon, reflective clothes to ride with. This will allow cars to see you at all times.
Keep your focus on where passing vehicles are. Once you spot them, make sure they spot you too before an accident occurs.
Look for Road Hazards
Most people who have walked down a street will have noticed the conditions of the roads. They could be cracked or full of potholes.
Such hazards may not be as visible from a bike. Maintaining your attention to your complete surroundings will ensure safe riding.
Sometimes you may be out riding with others. If you are at the front, make sure to yell to the others to alert them to the hazard.
Avoid Night Riding
Nighttime could be the most dangerous time to ride a bike. The lack of light will drastically lower your visibility.
Wear as much reflective clothing as possible. You may end up so bright that people will think, ‘Gondor calls for aid.’ But, at least you will be seen by vehicles on the road.
If Someone Else Causes an Accident
No matter how safe we are, there is always the possibility of human error. If you ever get into an accident, check who was to blame.
If you have been on the receiving end of an accident, a bicycle accident lawyer will help you. You could be owed compensation for the accident.
Hopefully, this situation never occurs for you. But it’s good to know you are covered if it does.
Be Safe When Riding
Now you know more about bike safety. Follow these tips, and you will be ok.
Ride a bike that’s right for you. Maintain visibility.
Avoid the hazards and nighttime riding. Hire a lawyer if someone else is to blame. Make sure to browse the rest of this section for some more tips.
