More and more people choose to ride their bikes instead of taking public transportation or driving cars. It is partly because of the growing awareness of the importance of fitness, but it’s also due to the increasing traffic congestion and pollution in cities. It is an eco-friendly alternative that can save you on gas money, public transportation fees, and traffic time while helping you exercise.
While there are many benefits to riding a bike, there are also some dangers that riders need to know. To stay safe while cycling, it’s crucial to understand how to protect yourself from accidents and injuries. Here are some tips for staying safe while biking.
Appropriate Safety Gear
Biking without the proper safety gear can be dangerous. A helmet is the most critical piece of safety gear, as it can protect your head in the event of a fall or collision. It’s also important to wear reflective clothing and use lights when biking at night. It will make you more visible to drivers and pedestrians and help keep you safe while riding.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study, cyclists who don’t wear helmets are three times more likely to die from a head injury in a crash than those who do. The study also found that helmets reduce the chances of head injuries by 50%. So, if you’re not wearing a helmet while cycling, you’re putting yourself at a much greater risk of severe injury or death. It can be dangerous to be on the road with fast-moving cars and pedestrians. However, you can ensure your safety when you have the appropriate gear.
Be Aware of Surroundings
When you’re cycling, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings. You may not have the same level of visibility as drivers in cars, so it’s vital to be extra vigilant when biking. One way to do this is always to be aware of your blind spots.
Bicycles have plenty of blind spots since they don’t have side mirrors. It is especially true if you’re riding a bike with a large frame. You need to be aware of who or what is around you and take measures to avoid accidents.
Bikers should also avoid busy areas where there are a lot of cars and pedestrians because it can be dangerous. Cars may not see the biker or may not be able to stop in time if they need to. Pedestrians may also not see the biker or walk out into the street without looking. Bikers need to stay safe by avoiding these types of areas.
Learn the Traffic Rules
When cycling in traffic, it’s essential to know the traffic rules and bike hand signals. It will help you stay safe and avoid accidents.
The traffic rules are the same for drivers and cyclists. Bikers need to obey the same traffic laws as drivers, such as stopping at red lights and stop signs. They should also use hand signals when turning or stopping. These hand signals are universal, so they’re understood by drivers worldwide.
Here are the essential hand signals that cyclists should use:
- Left turn: Extend your left arm out horizontally and point it in the direction you’re turning
- Right turn: Extend your right arm out horizontally and point it in the direction you’re turning
- Stopping: Extend your left arm out horizontally and point it down
By following the traffic rules and using hand signals, cyclists can stay safe on the road.
It’s also important to be defensive while riding. You should always be aware of the cars around you and be prepared for them to make sudden stops or turns.
You can do this by riding in the middle of the lane so that drivers can see you. You should also avoid riding too close to parked cars because drivers might open their doors without looking, which could cause you to crash. If there’s a car behind you tailgating, you can pull over to let them pass.
Being defensive during biking will help you stay safe on the road and avoid accidents.
Hire a Lawyer in Case of Accidents
When you’re involved in a bike accident, exchanging information with the other party is essential. Your first steps should be trading names, contact information, and insurance information. Taking pictures of the scene of the accident will also be necessary. The tactic will help when filing an insurance claim.
If you get injured in a bike accident, you must get medical attention. You should also contact a personal injury attorney to help you file a compensation claim. Bike accidents can result in serious injuries, and you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.
A personal injury lawyer will be able to help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. They will know how to negotiate with the insurance companies and get the best settlement possible.
Biking is an excellent form of exercise and transportation, but it’s essential to be aware of the risks. By following these safety tips, you can make sure that you stay safe while biking.