How to Stay Safe While Bicycling This Summer in Fresno
Thousands of Californians injury riding their bicycle each day. Whether it is for pleasure, exercise, or an inexpensive form of transportation, bicycling continues to gain in popularity. As such, more and more bicyclists are on the roads in and around Fresno and the Central California Valley area. As you enjoy riding this summer, remember these key safety tips for bicyclists.
Bicycling Safety Tips
- Wear Protective Gear — Bicycle helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of serious head trauma and fatalities in bicycle accidents. In addition to wearing a helmet every time you ride, you should also wear knee pads, elbow pads, riding gloves, and sturdy shoes to reduce the risk of an injury in a crash.
- Increase Visibility — Even on the clearest, brightest day, you need to wear brightly colored clothing, reflective clothing, or other attire that increases your visibility to other drivers. You should also add reflectors and lights to your bicycle, especially if you ride at dawn, dusk or night.
- Avoid Distractions —Distracted bicycling is just as dangerous as distracted driving. When you are riding, leave your cell phone and other devices in your backpack. Don’t ride with earphones in because this reduces your ability to hear oncoming traffic in addition to being an unnecessary distraction.
- Wear or Carry Forms of Identification — In the case of an accident or another emergency, you want someone to be able to identify you if you are unable to do so. Carry a form of identification, including the name and contact number of a relative and information for first responders (i.e. you have diabetes, allergic to latex, etc.).
- Obey all Traffic Laws — Bicyclists have the same rights as motorists, but they also have the same responsibilities. Bicyclists must obey all traffic laws and any specific laws related to riding bicycles. The California Bicycle Coalition has a summary of bicycle laws in California.
- Watch the Weather — Avoid riding during inclement weather, especially in fog. Bad weather can reduce your visibility and your visibility to other drivers. It can also create slick conditions that can increase your risk of an accident. Because the weather is unpredictable, it is a good idea to carry rain gear if you are planning a long ride.
- Use Hand Signals — Hand signals help drivers know what you intend to do. Use them each time to turn or stop.
- Ride with Others — There is safety in numbers. Whenever possible, avoid riding alone. Ride with groups but remember to ride single file. If something goes wrong, you have others with you to help until emergency medical services arrive.
Call a Fresno Bicycle Accident Attorney
Even when you take all the precautions you can, you could still be injured in a bicycle crash. Other drivers simply do not pay enough attention to the road. This inattention causes thousands of accidents each year, including bicycle accidents. In addition, road hazards, weather conditions, and defective products also cause bicycle accidents.
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, you may have a third-party claim for your damages, including lost wages, medical bills, other damages.
Call the Fresno bicycle accident attorneys of Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000or contact the office by using the contact form on our website to request a free legal consultation and no-obligation case evaluation.
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