While riding your bicycle is one of the most popular ways to commute and save money on gas, it’s often quite hazardous when sharing the road with other motor vehicles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 900 bicyclists were killed and there nearly half a million emergency department visits derived from bicycle-related injuries.
Florida has the highest rate of bicycle-related deaths compared to any state in the U.S. – 0.57 per 100,000 people, more than double the nationwide rate of 0.23 per 100,000. While using a helmet when riding a bicycle is imperative to avoid serious injury, there are many other ways to reduce the possibility of being involved in a devastating bicycle accident.
The following tips can make bicycling safer:
- Be clearly visible. Wearing bright, vibrant clothing that’s reflective when auto mobile shin their lights at night. In addition, install flashing bicycle lights as well for more visibility.
- Be aware of your surroundings. This includes looking behind you for approaching vehicles. Practice doing so without losing your balance or swerving. If you route consists of regular traffic, install a side view mirror to help see vehicles behind you.
- Avoid stopping or waiting in a driver’s blind spot. Instead, try stopping behind a vehicle.
- Lookout for opening car doors. Ride at a minimum three feet away from parked cars if room on the road permits, or else you can take the lane. Scan the screen a few cars ahead for adequate anticipation.
- Never pass cars on the right. A vehicle may not see you and collide right into you when attempting to make a right turn.
- Stay away from parking lot exits. Parking lots with various exits can be dangerous for bicyclists. It’s also important to stay away from the sidewalk since motorists don’t expect bicyclists using them.
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident and sustained serious injuries, contact our Tampa Bay personal injury attorney for help and request a free consultation today.