Bicycle Road Safety
Many people in New York use a bicycle as their main form of transportation. In a big city, bicycles are ideal because they cost much less than a car, are easy to park, and allow a person to get around efficiently. If you choose to bike on the streets, it is important to know key road safety basics to minimize your chance of being in an accident.
Riding in Traffic
Bikes are considered vehicles and have the same rights and responsibilities on the road as do automobiles. However, sometimes cars fail to notice bikes or may not correctly anticipate what a bicyclist plans to do. The following tips can help you remain visible and predictable on the road:
- Ride in the rightmost lane in traffic. If you need to make a left turn, give yourself plenty of time and distance to switch lanes.
- Always use hand signs to communicate what you plan to do, whether you are turning left, turning right, switching lanes, slowing down, or stopping.
- Wear bright colored clothing and always use a bright back and front light in overcast weather and at night.
- Follow all traffic lights and stop signs. Disregarding traffic lights or signs is one of the main causes of bicycle accidents.
- If you need to pass a car or an obstruction in the road, look to your left and behind you first.
- Signal with your left hand that you are moving over, then safely pass the obstruction.
- If a driver is behaving recklessly or threateningly towards you, do not involve yourself in a confrontation. Put as much distance between yourself and the driver as you can to protect yourself.
These simple steps can help to minimize your chance of a bicycle accident. Bicyclists must constantly be aware of their surroundings and must be able to make split-second decisions to avoid harm.
Sometimes however, even the safest and most vigilant bicyclist may be hit by a distracted or reckless driver. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, consider consulting with a Bronx bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. The driver may be liable for your injuries and you may be entitled to compensation for your accident related costs.
Contact Us
For sound legal advice and assistance regarding your bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced Bronx bicycle accident lawyers of Parker Waichman LLP today at 1-888-244-2273.
