There are always more bicyclists on the road when the weather gets warm and sun starts shining on a regular basis. Bicycling, while a convenient and environmentally-friendly commuting option, also has some challenges – especially when sharing the road with drivers. Here you will find important bike safety tips and reminders about how to stay safe during riding season.
Bike Safety Tips For Bikers
Helmets Save Lives!
Make sure your helmet fits properly. When the chin strap is buckled, the helmet should feel snug and comfortable. You should not be able to move the helmet from side to side or up and down when you are wearing it. It should sit level on your head (not tilted) and rest low on the forehead.
Obey The Law
The most effective way for states to save lives (and money) is a universal helmet law. In 2003, the King County Board of Health extended the bike helmet regulation to include Seattle. The rule requires that all bicyclists, regardless of age, must wear a helmet. To avoid fines, fees, and injuries, just wear a helmet!
Stay Visible
Ensuring that you’re visible to other road users from a significant distance is an important bike safety tip. Always wear bright fluorescent colors, use reflectors and/or reflective gear, and install proper headlights and taillights. The state of Washington requires a white front light that is visible for 500 feet and a red rear reflector.
Bike Safety Tips For Drivers
Don’t Speed
It’s always important to go the speed limit when driving. Following this simple advice can avoid accidents with bicyclists and pedestrians.
Be Aware
Keeping your eyes on the road and always maintaining awareness of your surroundings is a crucial bike safety tip for drivers. Don’t text and drive, drive under the influence of alcohol, drive while tired, or anything else that can lend itself to error. The costs to you and to others can be tragic.
Share The Road
Both bikers and drivers should understand the importance of sharing the road for a safe commuting experience. Give bicyclists three feet when passing, and never pass when the road looks too narrow. Bikers should use bike lanes whenever possible, but as the driver, remember that bike lanes aren’t always an option. Bicyclists have as much right to the road as you do with your automobile.
Using these bike safety tips and your common sense will be a tremendous help in maintaining safety on the roads for everyone. Happy bicycling!
Have You Been Injured In A Bicycle Accident?
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, one of the best things you can do right now is explore your legal options. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to meaningful compensation.
Premier Law Group is Washington’s premier personal injury law firm. We are best described as a down-to-earth team, dedicated to exceptional client service, specializing in personal injury law, and committed to our communities – guaranteed. Here’s what to expect when you contact and work with Premier Law Group:
- We’re accessible. When you contact us about your bicycle accident, you’ll speak directly with an attorney – not just a receptionist or intake specialist.
- We’re straightforward. No game-playing here – we want to help you towards your goals. For example, we’ll be upfront about whether you even need an attorney to settle your claim.
- We care. We’re real people who help real people with real problems. You’ve been wronged and you deserve an experience and outcome that makes things as right as possible.
Call Premier Law Group For A Free Bicycle Accident Consultation
Part of our mission is to ensure that you become more informed about your legal options, whether we end up representing you or not. Call Premier Law Group at 206.285.1743 today to schedule a free bicycle accident consultation. If you decide to retain Premier Law Group, there’s no legal fee unless we settle or win your case.
Jason at premier law group is truly an outstanding individual. Our particular case was not something that their firm usually sees but they were more than willing to help us and give us all of the information they had available. I can't recommend them enough.