Bicycles are a great option for transportation or leisure, but that does not mean that bikes are always safe. Accidents can happen, whether you lose control of your bike or cross paths with a careless driver. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to protect yourself when riding. Before you ever strap on your helmet, it is vital that you understand bicycle safety and preventative measures in Crown Point. Even if you take every step to ride safely, accidents can occur when other people are negligent. In those cases, the support of our skilled bike accident attorney could be vital.
What Safety Equipment Is Required?
In some places, it is illegal to ride a bicycle on a public roadway without a helmet. These rules can apply primarily to children, with certain states even setting out requirements for adults. That is not the case in Crown Point, where there are no legal requirements to wear a helmet at any point when cycling under state law. However, wearing a helmet is an excellent safety measure for anyone bicycling in this city, as this dramatically decreases the risk of serious injuries by protecting your brain during an impact or a fall.
Failing to wear a helmet could potentially damage your personal injury recovery as well. Indiana follows a comparative negligence system that can reduce your recovery if you are partially to blame for your injuries. Not wearing a helmet does not increase your chances of an accident, but it could lead to more costly medical bills.
Preventative Measures To Avoid a Bicycle Crash
There are many preventative measures you can take and safety tips you can adopt to lower the chance of a Crown Point bicycle accident. Here are some of the most common examples.
Focus on Visibility
Visibility is one of the most effective ways to prevent a bicycle crash. Cyclists should wear bright or reflective clothing during the day and equip their bicycles with front and rear lights at night or in low-light conditions. Reflectors on pedals and spokes can also increase visibility from multiple angles. The more visible you are, the more likely drivers will see you in time to avoid a collision.
Follow the Rules of the Road
Bicyclists must obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, yielding when required, signaling turns, and riding in the direction of traffic. Predictable movements reduce confusion for drivers and make accidents less likely.
Stay Off the Sidewalk
Although it may seem safer, riding on sidewalks increases the risk of collisions with pedestrians and vehicles exiting driveways or parking lots. Staying in the roadway where drivers expect traffic, including bicycles, helps ensure safer interactions.
Use Hand Signals
Clear hand signals tell drivers and other cyclists in which direction you are cycling. Signaling before turning or stopping can help to prevent miscommunication and reduce the likelihood of a crash.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Check your brakes, tires, and gears before each ride to ensure your bike is in working order. A sudden mechanical failure can lead to dangerous accidents. Keeping your bike in good condition is an essential part of staying safe on the road.
Discuss Bicycle Safety and Preventative Measures With a Crown Point Attorney
At The Law Offices of David W. Holub, we understand that bicycle safety and preventative measures in Crown Point might not be enough to avoid a bike crash. If you have been hurt through no fault of your own, reach out today for a private consultation to discuss your personal injury claim.