Bicycle Accidents and How to Prevent Them
As bicycling begins to again rise in popularity as a method of travel and of recreation, motorists are seeing more and more cyclists on the road. Cycling can shorten a daily commute, prevent parking problems, provide a daily source of exercise and physical activity, lower gasoline bills, decrease travel times, lower air pollution emissions, and contribute to overall increased health benefits. Despite all the benefits of bicycles, however, bicycles on the road can be dangerous for both cyclists and drivers. Often, cyclists do not pay proper attention to traffic laws, while other times motorists do not understand safety concerns and drive hazardously around bicycles.
Biking accidents account for many injuries and deaths each year in the United States, often at the fault of motor vehicles. As more and more bikes hit the road, it is important for both cyclists to understand laws and safety precautions to keep themselves safe on the road.
Bicycle Safety Tips
Cyclists should be aware of traffic laws concerning bicycles and should exercise proper safety precautions to ensure their own safety.
Always wear safety gear. A helmet can save a cyclist’s life in the event of an accident by preventing fatal head injuries. Even when on a short commute, always wear a helmet.
Obey traffic laws. Most traffic laws that apply to cars also apply to cyclists. Remember that it is illegal in most places to ride any vehicle on the sidewalk. Become familiar with any specific biking laws in your state.
Use lights at night. Even if bike lights do not fully illuminate your path, they can greatly increase the ability of motorists to see you on the road. Use a white light in front as well as a red light in the rear.
Keep your bike in good working condition. Bikes without proper maintenance are more likely to malfunction and thus increase the risk of accidents.
Keep your calm around aggressive drivers. Not all drivers will have your safety in mind. Bicyclists report reckless driving, name calling, and threats from motorists. Keep your safety in mind and do not attempt to retaliate.
Plan your route in advance. Smaller streets are safer for biking than larger roads because fewer cars pass through. Some bigger roads have bike lanes to help ensure biker safety. Avoid roads with high-speed traffic if possible.
Educate non-cyclists about bicycle safety. Those who do not ride bicycles may not know the difficulties of biking or the hazards provided by motorists. Teach drivers about driving safely near bikes.
By
Joseph Devine
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine
