Bicycle Accident Prevention: What Every Cyclist Needs to Know
Dealing with a personal injury related to a bicycle accident can be a traumatizing experience for any cyclist, which is one of the reason’s it’s so important for cyclists to take safety precautions. Following safety protocols can not only reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring, but can help reduce the severity of an accident should one occur.
Whether you enjoy cycling to work as a way to reduce your carbon footprint or simply because you want to live a healthy lifestyle, cycling carries with it an assortment of perks. It enables you to spend time outdoors, exercise easily, and travel inexpensively. Unfortunately, even the best cyclists may experience accidents. Cycling accidents can occur between cyclists and other cyclists, motor vehicles, or even pedestrians. One of the most important things any cyclist needs to understand is that proactively trying to prevent accidents from occurring is incredibly important. Not only does focusing on safety help prevent accidents, but following safety protocols can help reduce the severity of an accident if one does occur.
Understand the Laws
One of the simplest ways to reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring is to learn the rules of the road. For example, it’s important that you ride your bike on the right side of the road. Ride with the traffic, rather than against it. You should also make sure that you obey all traffic laws and respect stop signs and lights. Doing so will help ensure that motor vehicle drivers are able to see you clearly when you’re riding.
Invest in Proper Safety Gear
Never skimp when it comes to safety gear. Keep in mind that drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists may struggle to see you when you’re cycling, especially if the weather is poor. Reflective safety gear can make an incredible difference when it comes to increasing your visibility. It’s also important that you invest in a proper helmet. Even if you do experience an accident, a helmet can help prevent severe head injuries from occurring.
Keep Your Bike in Working Order
It’s important that you repair your bike anytime it breaks or becomes damaged. Avoid riding when you have damaged tires or chains, for example. If you are not sure how to repair your bike, you can bring it to a local repair shop that can fix any damaged parts of your bicycle. You should also make sure that your tires are always properly inflated so you can ride safety and easily.
If you do experience a personal accident while riding your bicycle, make sure you file a police report immediately. Take pictures of the accident, give a statement to the police, and seek medical care promptly. You may be entitled to monetary damages after an accident, as well, so it’s important to speak with a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process. Don’t wait to get the help you need after an accident. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer who understands bicycle law and who can assist you.