With the Covid-19 vaccine rolled out and warmer spring days finally here, many folks are itching to get back into outdoor activities like biking. Whether it’s jumping on your bicycle for a quick family ride around the block, or a longer weekend excursion, biking is a great way to exercise. However, as a bike accident lawyer TN trusts, I know spring can be particularly dangerous for bicyclists.
Here are a few safety tips that will keep you and your family safe while biking.
Tips to avoid a bike accident this spring:
Wear a helmet, and make sure it fits.
Most biking-related fatalities and injuries involve factors that are within a cyclist’s control—like the decision to forgo a helmet. But even if you are smart and wear a helmet, it’s not going to do you much good if it doesn’t fit properly. Here’s a quick tip from the website helmetcheck.org:
With the helmet still on and the straps securely fastened, move it from side to side and up and down with your hands. If it fits right, your skin should move as the helmet is moved. You should feel as if a slight, even pressure is being exerted all over your head. Remember, too, that a helmet loosens up a bit as the comfort liner compresses through use. A new helmet should be as tight as you can comfortably wear it.
Pay close attention to traffic.
Spring days can be some of the busiest on the road — people are driving with their windows down, cyclists are out and about, and motorcyclists are out for a spin. Be vigilant, and pay attention. Drivers may be distracted, and might be out of practice sharing the road. A few good rules of thumb are to give yourself plenty of distance from other vehicles, clearly signal to drivers, and wear clothes that make it easy for other bikers and drivers to see you. Fluorescent, neon, and other bright colors are your best bet, whether it’s day or night.
Watch out for other cyclists.
There’s nothing like a bike ride now that the weather’s warm. But, chances are you won’t be the only one. Many other folks have the exact same idea. While most cyclists don’t have any problem sharing bike lanes and paths with others, it’s important to remember that you might have to share these areas with more riders than usual as people break out of their pandemic cabin fever.
Leave your phone in your pocket.
You can’t discuss springtime cycling safety without bringing up cell phones. Many cyclists know that there is no Tennessee law that says you can’t talk on a cell phone while riding. However, common sense should tell you that just like helmets should always be a yes, cell phones should always be a no. This is for your safety and the safety of others. If you need to make a call or check directions, pull over to a stop that’s safely away from traffic.
Additional Tips
- Keep an eye out for road hazards like potholes and broken glass. (The NHTSA’s recommendation is that children under 10 ride on the sidewalk and all others ride in the street.)
- Adjust your bicycle to fit you properly.
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated and that your brakes work before heading out.
- Avoid riding in the dark. But if you have to, make sure you’re wearing visible clothing and have front and rear reflectors.
I’ve you’ve been injured in a bike accident, speak with a lawyer TN trusts for FREE.
Practicing these bicycle safety tips will increase your chances of staying safe on the road. But sometimes, even with proper safety and the best intentions, accidents can’t be avoided.
If you or a family member have been injured in a bike accident, contact us online or give us a call at (901) 327-2100 for a FREE consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to help you. We will discuss your options and come up with a plan that best meets your needs. We look forward to being there for you and your family, no matter what life throws your way.