Danger Is Looming: 15 Tips to Avoid an Accident When Riding You Bicycle
Riding a bicycle can be a fun, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly way to get from point A to point B. Whether you’re riding a bicycle for transportation or recreation, there are a few rules you should always follow to stay safe on the road. However, sometimes accidents are unavoidable, and when that happens, you might feel lost as to what to do. In this article, I will cover a few of the leading causes of bicycling accidents, some easy tips and tricks you can take to avoid potential crash landings, and what to do if you suddenly find yourself in a losing battle with gravity and a smashed bike.
15 Tips To Avoid Bicycling Accidents
- Always wear a helmet
- Make sure your shoelaces are tied
- If your pants are long and loose, tie them back
- Attach bike lights and reflectors
- Follow the rules of the road
- Make sure you look both ways before crossing an intersection
- Signal with your arms before turning
- Do not bike on busy roads without a shoulder
- Do not listen to music or put in earbuds
- Double-check to make sure drivers see you
- Beware of loose gravel or other road obstructions
- Keep your eyes on the road
- Watch out for pedestrians
- Look behind you before passing
- Follow traffic laws–bikers do not have the right away
For more tips on how to stay safe on the road click here.
What Are The Leading Causes of Bicycle Accidents
It may not come as a surprise that the leading cause of bicycle accidents happen when a car collides with a biker. That’s because most roadways are not set up with bike lanes to accommodate people who may not be able to afford a car or who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Not to mention that drivers rarely look twice to check for those who choose to ride on two wheels instead of four. The issue has gotten more press attention in recent years as biking becomes an alternative to commuting on congested roadways. But whatever the reason for choosing to ride a bike instead of driving a car, neither come without their risks. There’s no accounting for freak accidents, including, but not limited to operator error, running into people or objects, dogs, uneven roads, etc. that can cause possible injury. To see other leading causes of bicycle accidents click here.
Who To Call After An Accident
Your injured, it may or may not be your fault, but the medical bills are piling up, so what do you do? If it applies, make sure to get the other party’s insurance information and be sure to take pictures of the scene. This will help identify who’s at fault. Afterward, one option is to call a lawyer. Hare Wynn are personal injury lawyers that can deal with the hassle of insurance companies and regularly help those suffering from a debilitating injury get compensated for medical bills, missed work, and pain and suffering.
What to Take Away
Of course, no one thinks they’ll get into an accident but, as we all well know, this is 2020, the year of the unexpected. Accidents are inconvenient, stressful, and a hassle to work through, but you ultimately don’t have to go through it alone. There are people who can help reduce the burden of a biking accident that resulted in an injury. However, if you follow these fifteen easy tips and tricks, you can greatly reduce your risk of having to jump through hoops with the insurance company. Stay safe out there and happy riding!