3 Safety Tips for Cyclists
I’ve been a cyclist for a handful of year now, and I’ve learned a few tips that will keep a biker safe and a motorist out of your hair. Although sometimes a bicycle accident is unavoidable, there are many that can be avoided or lessened in severity by keeping a few things in mind. Below are some helpful tips on how to travel safely by bicycle:
1. Pretend You’re Invisible
It’s safe to assume that most drivers don’t pay too much attention to the presence of cyclists. For a valid reason, we are not as big, brightly colored, and covered in lights as cars. While riding, I not only assume I’m invisible; I anticipate people cutting me off. Unfortunately, I’m proven right to swerve after swerve. It’s an unfortunate truth, but the earlier this mindset is adopted, the safer you will be.
2. Dust Off that Helmet
Much to their mother’s chagrin, too few people actually wear a helmet. It’s unavoidable you are going to look slightly silly while wearing it, but that contraption will save your life. The effects of getting into a crash without a helmet are terrifying. I’ve seen a wreck victim completely lose their short-term memory from a head injury. She didn’t remember calling me for help when I arrived to the hospital.
3. Make Eye Contact
To be absolutely sure a driver sees you, hold eye contact and communicate with your hands/body language as much as you can; establish your intentions! Drivers are prone to ignoring cyclists. When eye contact is established, you are now seen as a fellow human being, as opposed to a two-wheeled obstruction.
Bike accidents are very common and often unavoidable. If you are a victim of a driver’s lack of responsibility, you are entitled to proper compensation. If you’re a victim of a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer from the Loewy Law Firm for legal help!