Did you know that Peter is an avid bike rider? It’s true! In fact, he’s been competing in triathlons since 2007. Whether you are competing in triathlons or using your bike for transportation, bike riding is great for your health and is an environmentally friendly way to get around.
Peter isn’t the only one who is in on this not-so-well-kept secret. The nation is also waking up to the positive health and environmental effects that riding a bike can offer. Nearly one-third of all Americans ride a bicycle at least once each year, and almost half of those that ride a bicycle use it for transportation (i.e., work, shopping, meetings, etc.). While the number of active cyclists is continually growing, many people are still not sure how to be safe while doing so. Furthermore, motorists are just as unsure of how to deal with bicycle lanes and cyclists on the road.
This growth, as well as overall confusion, can sometimes be a recipe for disaster. In fact, there are more than 45,000 accidents involving bicycles, and well over 800 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes each year. With these figures in mind, it is imperative that both cyclists and motorists become more educated on what they should and what they shouldn't do to keep everyone safe on the road.
If you or a family member has been injured in a bicycle-related accident, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced bike accident lawyer. Contact us to schedule your free initial consultation today.
Tips For Cyclists
Unbeknownst to many, those on a bicycle must obey traffic rules just as motorists have. Lacking knowledge of the rules or neglecting to follow them can lead to catastrophic consequences. Listed below are a few tips to help those on a bicycle to ride safely.
- Know the rules of riding your bike in the bike lane
- Obey all traffic signals as well as posted signs
- Ensure that you are visible to motorists (i.e., ride in an upright position, wear reflective gear, use clear signals, etc.)
- Maintain a distance of at least a door’s width when riding next to parked cars
- Wear safety gear - helmets can potentially prevent serious injuries as well as death
Tips For Motorists
As a motorist sharing the road with cyclists, you are clearly in a less vulnerable position. If an accident occurs, you are far less likely to suffer injuries than a person riding on a bike and you are more likely to do serious damage to the person riding the bike. Therefore, you should be extra cautious when sharing the road and expect the unexpected. The following safety tips can help to make the road safe for those on bikes as well as yourself:
- Know the rules of the bike lane
- Only use your horn when necessary
- Allow those on a bike more space (especially during inclement conditions)
- Maintain awareness of cyclist on the road (this is especially true when at junctions, turning, or switching lanes)
- Do not become angry when cyclists don’t use the bike lane (they are not required to by law).
Why The Road Can Be Dangerous For Cyclist
Obviously, a cyclist can incur far more damage than a motorist in the event that there is a collision between the two. Though there are clear health and environmental benefits to riding a bike, it can also be incredibly dangerous when doing so in the presence of cars and trucks.
If you are a cyclist that has suffered injuries as a result of the negligent actions of a motorist, it is recommended that you connect with a bike accident attorney as quickly as possible. Contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers or give us a call at 1-800-350-8888 to schedule your free initial consultation today.
