It is increasingly common to see people using a bicycle as their preferred mode of transportation. With the warmer months approaching, more people of all ages will be out on their bicycles. This is a positive in many ways.
Still, there are inherent risks with riding a bicycle. Many drivers are distracted, drive under the influence, drive at excessive speed and do not share the road with riders as they should. With that in mind, it is imperative for riders to be aware of how accidents happen and to take steps to avoid them. Bicycle safety strategies can be effective if implemented properly.
Know the fundamentals about bicycle safety
Bicyclists are required to adhere to traffic laws just as drivers are when operating an automobile. In Connecticut, only those under 16 are legally required to wear a helmet, but it it is advisable for all riders to do so. It is very important for bicyclists to follow traffic laws, such as riding on the right side of the road. This is important because many times vehicle drivers who are making a right hand turn only look to their left and therefore would not see a bicyclist coming at them on their right hand side until it is too late.
Many severe injuries occur due to falling off a bicycle or being hit by an automobile and hitting the head. It can lead to brain trauma and even death. Finding the right fit for the helmet is key as it is designed to blunt the impact and protect the rider’s head.
It is vital to be constantly on alert about the possibility of a crash, but there are times when bicycle accidents are more prevalent.
Statistically, the greatest number of bicycle accidents happen in the summer. As for where they happen, urban areas are the most common because it is where riders and drivers are obligated to share the road in a confined space with various obstacles and rules. Around 75% of bicycle fatalities happen in cities.
The most frequent cause of auto-bicycle accidents is failing to yield. This is a basic rule of the road that many do not follow and it can spark deadly results.
Bicyclists are wise to wear light-colored clothing and be as visible as possible so drivers can see and avoid them.
The bicycle itself is also paramount for safety. Many riders do not have a bike that suits them. That could mean being the wrong size, being too advanced for their skills, because it is not constructed properly or maintained as it should be. Riders can be injured by an unexpected issue like brake failure or getting their clothes caught in the pedals, the chain or the tires.
Regardless of rider vigilance, bicycle accidents can happen
There are situations in which a rider following all the rules and being wary of traffic dangers when out on their bicycle can prevent a catastrophic crash. In others, it makes no difference. When there is a bicycle accident, a person’s life is going to change if they are fortunate enough to survive. Family members left behind after a fatal accident will have a lot to consider.
To ensure those impacted have a good chance at making a full recovery financially, personally and professionally, it is crucial to gather evidence, accurately assess the circumstances and know how to move forward. Part of that is knowing what options are available after a bicycle collision and to act as soon as possible.