Bicycling is a popular hobby, a great way to stay in shape and a less costly method of transportation, especially in a state such as Florida with its nice year-round weather.
If you are a Florida bicyclist, following the rules of the road and taking certain steps can help reduce the risk of a serious or fatal accident. One of the most important rules is wearing a helmet.
SUV collides with Apopka man
When you bicycle without a helmet, you significantly increase the chance of serious injury or death in case of an accident. This was illustrated recently when a 51-year-old man from Apopka was killed while allegedly riding his bicycle without a helmet.
The bicyclist was traveling north and was in the direct path of an SUV that was traveling east and being driven by a 57-year-old Orlando man. The SUV collided with the bicyclist. The bicyclist, who was believed not to have been wearing a helmet, was transported to a local hospital and later pronounced dead. The SUV driver was uninjured.
In addition to always wearing a helmet, here are some other safety tips that will help you stay safe while you are on a bicycle.
Wear reflective materials and keep your hands on your bicycle
Many bicycle accidents occur because drivers cannot see cyclists, particularly at intersections where paths cross. Wearing reflective clothing and installing reflectors on your bicycle make it easier for drivers to see you.
Just as you should keep both hands on the wheel while driving, you should always keep both hands on your bicycle when riding. Avoid riding hands-free when you are sharing the road with other vehicles.
When your hands are not on your bicycle, your reaction time is slower if you unexpectedly encounter a vehicle or pedestrian. Having your hands off your bicycle also means you cannot brake as quickly as you should, causing you to fall off your bicycle or result in an accident.
Know how to use bicycle hand signals and use them
Drivers do not know what you are going to do unless you tell them. Intersections are a common location for bicycle accidents, so always use turn signals at intersections to communicate your next steps with surrounding drivers.
Distracted cycling is just as dangerous as distracted driving. Being a distracted cyclist can be even more dangerous because you do not have the protective material of a vehicle surrounding you. On a bicycle, you are more vulnerable to serious injuries.
Use the time on your bicycle wisely. If you are like many cyclists, the time spent on your bicycle is a chance to get away from your electronics, enjoy fresh air and get some exercise.
Put your phone away when on your bicycle. Focus on the road and your surroundings.
Ride with the flow of traffic
This means traveling in the same direction as other vehicles. This reduces the chance of an accident. Additionally, if you are cycling against the flow of traffic when an accident occurs, it might be more challenging to prove you were not at fault for the accident if you pursue compensation through a personal injury claim.
Finally, operate your bicycle as you would your vehicle. Drivers are used to certain patterns of behavior on the road. When your actions mimic other drivers, you are more likely to be seen by drivers. Avoid actions such as weaving through traffic or riding through multiple lanes, even if your bicycle makes it easy to do so.