Biking safely at night isn’t a given. It’s a learned skill. With that in mind, if you intend to take your bike out for a spin after dusk, there are a few precautions you should take to ensure your safety.
If you get injured while biking after dark because of the negligence of others, contact a bike accident lawyer at Steinberg Injury Lawyers. We can help. We offer a free legal consultation and work on a contingency basis. That means you don’t pay legal fees unless there is a favorable resolution in your bike accident claim.
Continue reading to learn the best ways to protect yourself while biking after dark.
Ride Somewhere Familiar Where You Are Visible
Sticking to the same route may seem boring, but it’s prudent to stay on familiar paths at night. Having a good understanding of the terrain before you begin can make you feel more at ease. Planning a familiar route ahead of time can also help you avoid areas known for speeding, drunk driving, and high crime.
It’s paramount to think about your safety when riding at night. Riding in well-lit areas increases your chances of being seen, but doesn't guarantee it. However, seeing what’s going on around you helps you feel more confident, avoid unforeseen hazards, and help others see you.
Follow The Law
Experienced bike riders suggest sticking to bike lanes whenever possible, riding with the direction of traffic, avoiding highways, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol when you have to bike home at night.
Traffic laws are designed to protect you as well as others. Neglecting to follow the law while riding your bike at night could lead to accidents, fines, and more.
Add Reflectives to Your Bike And Gear
Research has shown that adding reflective strips to the pedals of your bike is often just as helpful as adding reflectors to the back of your bike. As you peddle, the reflectors spin in a way that easily catches a motorist’s attention. When installing your protective gear, be sure to invest in reflectors for your pedals or shoes.
Consider placing reflective tape on other parts of your bike, like the mudflaps. You may want to avoid front-facing reflectives because they can create distractions for oncoming drivers. Your bike should also have front and back lights, for both day and night riding.
Have Back-up Gear
Fixing a mechanical issue in the dark isn’t fun, so make sure your bike is in tip-top shape before you leave. Outfitting your bike with extra gear is a good “fail-safe” plan that sets your nighttime bike rides up for success. Be sure to always bring an extra set of tools, backup parts, spare tires, and backup lights.
Ride With a Group if Possible
Riding with a club or group of friends is a good idea because there is safety in numbers. You can all help each other if there’s a safety or mechanical issue. Riding in groups can also increase the likelihood that other vehicle drivers see you.
Contact Us to Speak With a Bike Accident Lawyer Today
At Steinberg Injury Lawyers, we know that accidents can happen even if you’re fully prepared for your nighttime ride. With that in mind, if you’ve suffered an injury due to the negligence of another party while riding your bike, we can help.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options. We work on contingency and legal fees are only charged if we can recover compensation for your injury.
