Legal Tips and Resources

Riding a bicycle is great exercise and can help you get around town easier. However, riding a bicycle can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper safety precautions. In fact, motor vehicle accidents involving bikes cause thousands of serious injuries and deaths every year. Here are several tips for avoiding bicycle accidents:

Obey Traffic Laws

It’s crucial for bicyclists to obey the same traffic laws that motorists follow. Educate yourself about the rules and regulations of the road before heading out on your bicycle. Some important rules to follow include obey all traffic lights, using proper turn signals and riding along with the flow of traffic.

Make Yourself Noticeable

Bicycles are much smaller than motor vehicles, so they aren’t as visible, especially at night. That’s why it’s important to make yourself as noticeable as possible. Wear bright clothes and have lights and reflectors on your bike. The more visible you are, the less likely you are to get hit.

Stay Alert

As a bicyclist, it’s especially important to stay alert. If you’re distracted by your smartphone or other gadgets, you won’t be able to spot potential dangers on the road. If you absolutely have to call someone or send a text, find a safe place to stop. Taking your eyes off the road for even a second can put you in danger.

Check Your Bike Before Riding

Mechanical problems with your bicycle can also increase the risk of accidents. It’s a good idea to check for proper tire pressure and make sure your brakes work properly before you ride off.

Be Aware of Parked Cars

When you’re riding a bicycle, moving vehicles aren’t the only thing you should be concerned about. It’s also important to be aware of parked cars. Many bike accidents result from people opening car doors in front of cyclists. Before you ride past a parked car, check to see if someone is about to open the door in front of you.

Wear a Helmet

Helmets might not look that fashionable, but it’s essential to wear one when your riding a bicycle. While wearing a helmet may not help you avoid accidents, it can protect you from serious injuries in the event of an accident. Also, some states now require bicyclists to wear helmets.

Injured in a Bicycle Accident?

Even if you follow all the rules of the road, it’s still possible to get into an accident caused by a negligent motorist. If you were recently hurt in a bicycle accident, you should discuss your case with an experienced bike accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT. He or she can review your case and advise you the best way to proceed.

Thanks to Rasmussen & Miner for their insight into personal injury claims and bicycle injuries.