Bike riders in California are frequently put at risk when sharing the road with automobiles, trucks, and buses. If the appropriate safety precautions are not put in place, traffic can be perilous for a bicycle, with possibly fatal results. Keep reading to learn some of the steps you can take to reduce your chance of being the victim of a bike accident.
Always use bicycle safety equipment
Most experienced bikers are aware of the necessity for helmets and other safety equipment, but it is critical to choose and use gear that is appropriate for them. For example, if you buy a bicycle helmet that is either too big or too small for you, it will not offer you with the same level of protection as one that fits you properly.
Other popular safety equipment includes:
- Light reflecting materials (stickers, tape, clothing)
- Lights (headlights, blinking lights, red rear lights)
- Eye protection (goggles, sunglasses)
- Protective clothing (Velcro pads, mouth guards, gloves)
- Horns or bells
- Mirrors
Multitools, torches, first aid kits, tire pumps, and even extra tires are among the items carried by some riders in the case of an emergency or a cycling accident. These precautions are required to maintain the maximum degree of bicycle safety, whether you are new to cycling or have been doing it for years.
Bike maintenance is a must
The constant maintenance and care that bicycles require is one of the most neglected parts of bicycle ownership. It is critical to maintain appropriate bicycle maintenance whether you ride your bike once a year or three times a day.
Many parts of a bicycle, like the tires and chains, must be checked and maintained on a regular basis. Bicyclists in California should check their tire pressure and traction on a regular basis, as well as the condition of their brakes, handlebars, and even the seat. Even one piece of equipment that is not properly maintained might result in an unpleasant disaster.
Stay away from distractions while riding your bike
Cyclists in California are well aware of how crowded the roads may be at any time of day. Safely biking in California traffic is difficult enough without adding extra distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or listening to music, audiobooks, or podcasts. Anyone riding a bicycle in California is urged to eliminate any distractions that may impair their ability to concentrate and to focus fully on the road and their immediate surroundings.
Call today if you have been the victim of a bike accident
Of course, no matter what you do there is always the possibility that you will be involved in and injured in a bike accident in California. If this happens to you, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation to see how we can help.
