Bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries and even death in some cases. Even though cycling is known to be an eco-friendly way of traveling, it comes with its share of risks. The good news is that many of these accidents are preventable.
However, riding a bike does not mean you are powerless if something goes wrong. If you get injured in a bicycle accident, just contact the best bicycle accident attorneys. Getting legal support can improve your chances of fair compensation.
Understanding the safety precautions is necessary to reduce the chances of getting into a bicycle accident. Let us get into some of the ways through which we can be safe while riding.
Ways to Stay Safe While Riding a Bike
Will you be surprised to know that there were over 1,360 bicyclist deaths in 2022?
While bicycling is a fun activity, it does come with great risks. The sections below discuss what can be done to prevent accidents.
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Make Sure You Have Correct Bike Size
Choosing the right bike size is important. Any bike that is too big or small can make it hard for you to control it. To know your size, you can use a size chart that is based on your height. Make sure you can stand comfortably over the bike. You can also ask an expert to help you get the right frame size for your bicycle.
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Inspect Your Brakes Properly
The number one rule before you start riding is ‘always check your brakes. You need to ensure that the brake pads are touching the wheels properly and your vehicle stops when the brakes are applied. You can easily check them by spinning the wheel and applying the brake levers. If anything seems off, do not ride until you fix it.
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Always Wear Protective Headgear
To protect yourself from serious injuries, it is important to always wear protective headgear. Even if it is not something your government asks you to do, your safety should be your priority.
Moreover, if a crash occurs, replace your helmet since it is made to break after an impact. A helmet is also pretty useful in reducing the impact of the injuries. So never head out without wearing one.
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Avoid Headphones While Riding
Listening to music can be fun while riding, but it limits what you can hear while riding. You can miss a warning signal or an approaching car very easily if you have your headphones on. Not wearing headphones will help you stay alert and avoid accidents.
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Keep Your Hands on the Handlebar
You should have full control of the bicycle while riding. However, you may lose it if you do not keep both your hands on the handlebar at all times. Having both hands on the handlebar saves you from falling and getting hurt, especially when maneuvering unexpected bumps or uneven surfaces.
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Wear Protective Gear
Alongside a helmet, riders should consider wearing high-quality knee and elbow pads as well. These come in handy during an accident, protecting the joints from damage.
Conclusion
Bike riding is a fun activity, and it would be more fun when it was safe and reliable. While bicycle accidents do happen, it is very easy to prevent them. However, in the event of an accident, getting legal help will ensure that you get the support you need.
