Bicycle Safety Tips for Accident Prevention: We all know the benefits of cycling. Not only is it one of the best forms of exercise you can do, but it is also great for the planet and a brilliant way to get to know the place where you live. Despite these benefits, cycling still has its downsides.
The US is, by most measures, the most dangerous developed country for cyclists in the world. Due to most cities having virtually no cycling infrastructure and a culture that values automobiles above all else, cyclists tend to be at heightened risk across much of the country.
That’s why knowing the essential bicycle safety tips is important. With that in mind, here are the seven most important bicycle riding safety tips you need to know.
1. Wear a Helmet
When it comes to knowing how to ride a bicycle safely, this is the single most important thing. In 97% of all bicycle fatalities, the deceased was not wearing a helmet. We cannot stress enough how important it is to wear a helmet.
2. Make Yourself Visible
If you want to know how to avoid a bicycle accident, this is it. No matter the time of day, you need to be as visible as possible to motorists and other cyclists. Attach lights to your bicycle and always wear fluorescent clothing to ensure you stand out.
3. Don’t Ride Alone
Although this is not always possible, riding with a buddy can significantly reduce the chance of an accident. Two pairs of eyes is always better than one. Meanwhile, two people mean that, if the worst happens, one person may still be around to contact the emergency authorities.
4. Know the Rules of Bicycle Safety Tips
If you want to know how to safely ride a bike, you need to know your hand signalling. Always raise your left arm to indicate you are turning left and your right arm to indicate when you are turning right. This is essential and may even be required by law depending on the state you are in.
5. Always Ride with Traffic
When riding your bicycle, never, ever ride against traffic. Follow the flow of traffic and make sure you are on the right side of the road. Riding against oncoming traffic is a recipe for disaster.
6. Have a Personal Injury Lawyer on Speed Dial
This might sound hasty, but it is essential to be fully prepared in case of an accident. A personal injury lawyer will be able to immediately tell you what to do and ensure that you can get the compensation you deserve. You can read more here about what a personal injury lawyer can do for you in case of an accident.
7. Don’t Always Focus on Speed
When it comes to planning your cycling route to work, it is tempting to focus solely on speed and convenience. However, this is not always a good idea. Safety should be your priority. This means choosing quiet routes with less traffic and lots of bicycle lanes. If that adds an extra five minutes to your journey, it is certainly worth it if it means keeping safe.
Live a Safer and Healthier Lifestyle
Mastering the bicycle safety tips will ensure you make a healthy lifestyle choice without risking your safety. Cycling to work is only one simple way to improve your health and wellbeing. There are countless other ways to make your daily routine better for your mind and body. To find out what these are, make sure to consult our expertly-curated Health section today.
