In light of recent increases in bike traffic on roads and trails, bicycle safety is more important than ever.
According to the National Safety Council, 1,260 bicycles were killed in 2020 and increased by another 5% in 2021. This is why it is important to learn the basics of bike safety.Â
In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of bike safety, including why it’s important and how you can protect yourself while biking.
The Dangers of CyclingÂ
Cycling is a great way to get around and stay fit, but it’s essential to understand the dangers involved. Cyclists are more vulnerable than motorists because they are less visible and more exposed to the elements. This can make it easy for drivers to miss them, especially at night or in bad weather.
The most common dangers of cycling are:
- Getting hit by a car
- Falling off your bike
- Crashing into something
- Getting doored (when a driver opens their door into the path of an oncoming cyclist)
- Near misses
- Flat tires
- Running out of water or food on a long ride
How to Protect Yourself While CyclingÂ
While cycling is a great way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors, it’s essential to take safety precautions to protect yourself from accidents. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries in cycling accidents, many of which could have been prevented with the proper safety gear and precautions.
Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while cycling:
- Wear a helmet. To protect yourself while cycling, you should do this whenever you can.
- Make sure your bike is in good working condition. This includes having the right tires, brakes, and lights.
- Be visible. Wear bright clothing with reflective gear so that drivers can see you.
- Follow the rules of the road. Keeping traffic in sight means following all signals and signs.
Schedule a Consultation
Have you been injured in a bicycle accident? Look no further than Jeffress Law. As an experienced bicycle accident attorney, Chris Jeffress is ready to fight for you. You can call us at 303-993-8685.