Tips To Help Prevent Bicycle Accidents & Injuries
Bicycling is fun and a great way to get in shape for the summer months. It is also an inexpensive and environmentally friendly form of transportation. Now that spring is here, increasing numbers of cyclists are bound to be hitting trails and local roads, making it important for drivers to be on the lookout in order to help prevent accidents and injuries. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents in South Carolina are common, and they often result in serious and potentially life threatening personal injuries. If you or someone you care about enjoys riding, the following are safety tips to review while getting your bike ready for the season.
South Carolina Bike Accidents & Injuries
The Palmetto Cycling Coalition of South Carolina (PCCSC) is a leading bike advocacy group in our area, devoted to bike safety and protecting the rights of riding members. They work with both state and federal safety officials to promote better laws and infrastructure. Their goal is to help our roads better accommodate those that choose bicycling as a hobby or as their primary means of transportation.
Our state has historically ranked higher than other areas in terms of bike accidents and injuries. In addition to drivers who put bicyclists at risk through driving behaviors such as speeding, running traffic signals, and driving under the influence, part of the problem lies with riders who fail to protect themselves. One of the best ways to prevent potentially serious injuries when riding is by following state bicycle laws and by wearing an approved safety helmet every time you go out.
Reduce Your Risks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are two main causes of bike accidents: falls and collisions with automobiles. Both can end up leaving cyclists with serious injuries, but bike accidents involving cars have the potential to be particularly deadly. While you cannot control the behavior of others on the road, there are some defensive bicycling tips the NHTSA recommends to protect yourself:
Make sure you have the proper size bike. Riding one that is too big makes it harder to control.
Wear bright, reflective clothing that makes you easier to see, especially when riding at night.
If you do ride after dark, make sure your bike has rear reflectors and headlights.
Plan your route, choosing one with less traffic to avoid dangers.
Avoid distractions which make bike accidents occur, such as listening to music through earbuds.
Keep both hands on the wheel at all times and keep an eye out for changes in road conditions which could cause you to skid or lose control.
Avoid biking under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
Contact Us Today For Help
When bicycle accidents occur, contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC to get the professional legal representation you need. Our Aiken personal injury attorneys can advise you on the best course of action in your case, so you can get the compensation you need to recover. Call or contact our office online to request a consultation today.
