Bicycle Safety Tips

Cyclists in California face danger any time they share the road with other vehicles. Most bicycle accidents are caused by drivers’ negligence. This makes it even more important for bicyclists to always remain vigilant on the roads and follow bicycle safety tips at all times. When these tips are not enough and cyclists become injured in car accidents, they should speak to a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer for help right away.

Under California law, only cyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. However, wearing a helmet can greatly reduce the severity of a cyclist’s injuries should an accident occur. Everyone, regardless of age, should wear a helmet any time they get on a bike.

Due to the fact that motorists do not always watch out for cyclists the way they should, it is important to make yourself as visible as possible on a bike. Wearing brightly colored clothing can help with this. Equip your bike with front and rear reflectors and a light if you will be riding at night.

Before heading out, always inspect your bike to ensure that all parts are in good working condition. Make sure the tires have enough air, the brakes work, and that the chain runs smoothly. This can help prevent problems on the road that could cause you to lose control of your bike.

Always ride with traffic, not against it. Drivers expect vehicles on the road to act like other motorists. Riding on the right side of the road will make your actions more predictable, and make drivers alert to you, without being distracted by you.

For the safest riding, you should have two hands on your handlebars as much as possible. If you are using hand signals, taking a sip of water, or need to use one hand for another reason, keep the other hand on the handlebars at all times.

Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections. They are fairly dangerous places for cyclists. Always approach slowly and watch for other vehicles. Comply with traffic signals and if you are making a turn, look behind you for a break in traffic before signaling and proceeding to the appropriate turning lane. If you are in a crash at an intersection, reach out to a bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco for help determining who is at fault for your injuries.

Dooring occurs when a parked vehicle’s driver opens his or her car door into moving traffic. Often, the door enters a bike lane. Motorists who do not look before opening their doors fail to see cyclists, and the door opens into the path of the bike. When that happens, the cyclist crashes into the door and sustains serious injuries.

Cyclists are usually safe on the road. Unfortunately, even when they follow every possible bicycle safety tip, they can still become injured in an accident. If you have been hurt by a driver while on your bike, call our skilled bicycle accident attorneys in San Francisco now. We will review your case and advise you of the legal options you may have. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 for your free case evaluation.