Bike Safety Tips

Riding a bike is a favorite summer past- time for both kids and adults alike. There are many benefits to riding a bike such as relieving stress, increased muscle strength, and improves posture and coordination. While riding a bike is fun and has many health benefits, it is important to stay safe while riding a bike.

Bike Safety Tips

Wearing a helmet while riding will reduce your risk of injury by 85%; and in some states, it’s required by law. Always keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings. Doing so allows you to react and maneuver in case an obstacle was to obstruct your path such as a moving car were to obstruct your path It is recommended that you not wear headphones while riding since it blocks out important warning signs such as a car horn or people nearby. Remember to ride on the right side of the road, never against the traffic. If you disobey this rule, you are putting yourself at risk for a bicycle accident or a ticket.

Route 

Planning is important, especially when riding in a group. Be sure to agree on the route ahead of time and have a plan on what will happen if a member of the group becomes injured or separated by traffic ahead of time. If you consistently ride the same route; you might want to try something new. However, if you choose to do so, it is advised that you check out local laws and rules first.

Night Riding & Equipment 

When riding at night, motorists might have a hard time seeing you so it’s important to wear reflecting clothing. Reflective clothing such as neon attracts the attention of drivers to alert them that you are nearby and giving them enough time to stop should your paths cross. Finally, make sure your bike is well maintained, keep chains clean, and inspect breaks regularly. While it might seem like a hassle, regular maintenance on your bike could save your life.

Who Can Help?

If you are involved in a bicycle accident an experienced bicycle accident attorney like Rob Levine & Associates can help. Your main priority should be getting the treatment you need while attorneys handle the logistics of the claim. Rob Levine and Associates builds value onto your claims- damages to your property are secondary if your bicycle is damaged, we will contact the liable insurance company and get the repairs started. If your bicycle is beyond repair, we will work with the liable insurance company to get you reimbursed for a new one. You should be focused on getting better, not dealing with the hassle of the insurance company. Call us today at 401-424-5213 to find out how we can help you!

THE FUNDAMENTALS OF BIKE SAFETY

Be Alert. Scan ahead, center, left and right.

Be Wary.  Pay attention to vehicles, pedestrians, and others on the road.

Be Seen.  Use your horn, hand signals, and light to be seen by others on the road.

BIKE SAFETY TIPS CONTINUED

1. Protect Your Head.  Wear a helmet.
2. Stay Visible. If drivers can see you, they are less likely to hit you.  Use lights when biking at night or in low-light conditions.
3. Look, Signal & Look Again. Use hand signals to let drivers and other cyclists know where you are going.  Look and make eye contact.  Don’t assume drivers will stop.
4. Stay Alert. Keep a lookout for obstacles in your path.
5. Go With The Flow. Bike in the direction of traffic.
6. Act Like a Car. Drivers are used to the patterns of other drivers.  Don’t weave in and out of traffic.  The more predictable you drive, the safer you are.  Check for traffic.  Be aware of traffic around you.
7. Don’t Get Distracted. Don’t listen to music or talk on the phone while riding.
8. Obey All Traffic Laws & Lights.
9. Assure Bicycle Readiness. Is your bicycle properly adjusted?  Is your saddle in a comfortable position?
10. Do a Quick Bicycle Test. Check your brakes and your wheels.  Make sure that “quick release” wheels are secured properly.

HAZARD RECOGNITION

What is a Hazard?

Both road and weather conditions can be dangerous to riders.  Identify potential hazards and paying attention to your surroundings will keep you safer.

Hazards on the road:

• Uneven, rough surfaces can cause falls.
• An object in the road can cause a flat tire, loss of balance, or unsafe maneuver.  Avoid riding across unknown objects.
• Slippery surfaces create a loss of traction which may cause you to lose control of your bike.  Slow down or walk your bike.

TIPS TO AVOID COLLISIONS

• Make safe choices
• Keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling
• Keep both feet on pedals
• In a group, ride single-file, with the flow of traffic
• Wear a brightly colored helmet and retro-reflective material on your clothing
• Before entering a roadway:  Stop, look left, right, left again, then cross
• Avoid riding at twilight or in the dark, especially on narrow roads with peed limits that exceed 35 mph.

If you or a loved one has been injured and needs legal help, please contact Rob Levine & Associates for a free consultation. Our Fee Free Policy means that you do not pay unless you win. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will review your case to help you understand what your next steps should be.  Getting legal help can ease your mind and let your focus on getting better.

At Rob Levine & Associates we are experienced in personal injury cases in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. We are also experienced with social security and veteran’s disability cases nationwide. Our team is available 24/7 to help you. Contact us at 800- 742-3940 or visit our website for more information.