CYCLING ACCIDENT PREVENTION TIPS Nowadays, riding a bicycle is among the favorite hobby among the youngster and it is one of the best exercises for the adults as well. As compared to riding motorbikes or cars, the cyclist is having less protection and can be more dangerous. But if followed by the proper safety tips these accidents can be avoided and riding a cycle can be safe. Using a helmet while riding bicycle and proper safety gear during ride won’t offer much protection during a run-in with a motor vehicle. The best way to approach safe riding is to take steps and prevent this incident before they occur, regardless of who is responsible for an accident.
Bicycle Safety tips: When cyclist shares the road with other vehicles, bicycle safety rules is utmost important. Here are some tips that can help you stay safe and prevent accidents while on the ride.
Wear a Helmet: Wearing a helmet can protect the head and can reduce the risk of head injury in case of an accident. In some countries laws for wearing a helmet during a bicycle ride does exist and it is compulsory to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle. While purchasing a bicycle helmet, make sure it meets all the safety standards. Look for one with EPS foam and a thin plastic shell. There should be a sticker on the interior indicating that the helmet meets the safety standards. Regardless of your age, the laws of your state are to always wear a helmet while cycling, even for short distance.
Ride with the flow of Traffic
All other vehicles on the road use signals to indicate that they are taking a turn. So, to avoid accidents, keep your eyes on the road and read the signals right. If the bicycle paths are not available, the cyclist has to ride with the flow of traffic.
Watch for aggressive or distracted drivers. If you notice a vehicle moving erratically or a driver, who is clearly distracted or experiencing road rage, do your best to remove yourself from their immediate surroundings. If necessary, pull off to the side of the road and allow them to pass.
Ride defensively. Even if you obey all of the laws, traffic signs, signals, and lane markings, you can’t guarantee that other motorists will do the same. Don’t leave your safety in their hands, pay attention to everything going around you and be prepared to react at any given time. Look on both the side of the road before taking a turn. When turning left or right always look behind and give a hand signal.
Stay visible When a motorist can see you, they’re less likely to hit you. In addition to strapping on your helmet before a ride, wear bright clothing while riding during the day and reflective clothing at night. You should also equip your bicycle with reflectors and lights for low-light conditions.
Stay Alert Riding a bicycle demands the same level of attention as driving a car. It’s important to pay attention to your surroundings, listen for the sounds of nearby vehicles, and keep both hands free in case you have to suddenly use both the breaks. So distractions like music and texting can be dangerous. Always keep an eye out for obstacles in your path, and watch out for pedestrians and open vehicle
doors. Equipping your bicycle with a rear-view mirror, horn or bell, and a bright headlight is highly recommended.
Pre-Check before ride Be prepared for your ride, not only you but your bicycle too. Check all the parts of the bicycle to ensure bicycle is in good working condition. 1. Tire and wheels 2. Air Pressure 3. Gears 4. Brakes 5. Pedals 6. Reflective elements
Safety rules on Road for a bicycle ride. 1. Signal when changing lanes. 2. Ride on the right when safe to do so. 3. Follow all signs, signals, and road markings. 4. Follow speed positioning, with slowest vehicles and bicycles staying farthest to the right, and only passing on the left. 5. Adhere to lane positioning, riding three feet to the left of traffic when sharing lanes.
What can be avoided? 1. Drunken Riding 2. Signal jumping 3. Riding without a helmet 4. Overspeeding
These are a few simple tips that can be followed to avoid road accidents. By following these safety tips and practices, you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident while cycling. Always ensure you are familiar with cycling safety tips before riding a bicycle and always wear a helmet to reduce the risk of serious injury.