Helpful Tips to Reduce the Risks of Cycling Accidents

Cycling is a great way to travel and also get some exercise. While cyclists are legally allowed to use the road, often, other drivers aren’t as keen to share the road as they should. This, in turn, can make road conditions unsafe for cyclists. While we can’t quite control how people behave on the road, there are a few tips and tricks that can help keep you safe. In our latest blog, we share some helpful tips to reduce the risks of cycling accidents. We cover bike safety basics, proper riding practices, and road awareness tips.

Bike Safety Gears

There are many gears available on the market to help keep you safe. While decking yourself in all the safety equipment can be beneficial, the reality is that not everyone can acquire them all, or at least not all at once. The most essential gear, however, is a high-quality helmet. So if you can’t quite get your hands on all the other stuff, be sure to equip yourself with a heavy-duty helmet at the very least. While it can’t entirely prevent an accident, per se, it can help dramatically reduce the severity of your injuries. According to several studies, helmets can help reduce severe head injuries by up to 60% and fatal cycling accidents by 30%. Other helpful cycling gears include reflectors, rear bike lights, bells, and a safety vest.

Proper Riding Practices

Equipping yourself with proper riding gear can help reduce serious bike injuries. Once you’ve gathered your equipment, it is essential to adequately verse yourself in good riding practice and diligently follow them through. Below are some of the basic proper riding guidelines:

• Wear visible clothing, preferably white or anything on the brighter end of the spectrum.
• Obey the rules of the road.
• Always ride with the flow of traffic.
• Yield to pedestrians and other vehicles.
• Keep a safe distance between yourself and others around you.
• Ride in a single file. Avoid swerving back and forth.
• Use hand signals to communicate with those around you.

Keep Up with the Law

There are several laws put into place to help protect riders and keep the roads safe. Every so often, new additions are implemented to better accommodate cyclists. Staying up to date with road safety laws is an excellent way to protect yourself. This not only comes in handy in preventing accidents but also in the unfortunate event of an accident.

More Tips and Tricks!

There you have it, our tips to reduce the risks of cycling accidents. Stay updated with cycling news, tips, and tricks monthly by reading our monthly blog releases on here at californiabicyclesafety.com.  For expert and legal advice, contact the best San Diego bike accident lawyer now! Click here to get connected.