COMMON MISTAKES MADE BY BICYCLISTS

You can see bicyclists out enjoying our beautiful weather and scenery every day in Sacramento and throughout northern California. Bicycling is actually becoming a popular form of inexpensive transportation throughout California as our state continues to increase measures to protect bicyclists.

Unfortunately, there are things that a bicyclist can do that will increase the risk of being injured in a bicycle accident. Below are common mistakes made by bicyclists and how you can avoid these mistakes. Even experienced bicyclists can benefit from a reminder to avoid these potentially deadly and disastrous bicycling mistakes.

Bicycling Mistakes Bicyclists Can Avoid

• Riding Without Protective Gear – Wearing protective gear is one of the most important things you can do as a bicyclist. Every time you ride your bicycle, wear a bicycle helmet, elbow and knee pads, and other protective gear. In a crash with a vehicle, you will take the full impact of the collision. A helmet could mean the difference between a mild concussion and severe brain trauma.
• Wear Reflective Clothing – This is important all of the time but especially if you are riding at dawn, dusk, or night. You need to make yourself as visible as possible to drivers and others on the road. Wearing reflective clothing is one of the best ways to do this. Adding reflectors and lights to your bicycle are other good ways of increasing your visibility.
• Trying To Carry Too Much – Carrying packages or other bulky items can increase your risk of being in a bicycle accident. Keep your items to a minimum.
• Failing To Perform Regular Maintenance – Lubing the chain, replacing worn tubes, and replacing worn brakes are just some of the things you need to do on a regular basis to keep your bicycle operating correctly. If you are not comfortable with bicycle maintenance, take your bicycle to a professional bicycle shop for routine inspections and maintenance.
• Speeding – Speeding is just as dangerous for a bicyclist as it is for a driver. Increasing your speed increases the chance of a crash and increases the chance for severe injuries in a crash. Ride at a safe speed so that you can stop quickly to avoid a collision if necessary.
• Failing To Watch For Pedestrians – You may not be driving a car; however, you also are under the same requirement to yield the right of way to pedestrians. Because pedestrians may not notice a bicyclist, be very cautious when approaching crosswalks and intersections.
• Not Carrying An Emergency Kit – You should always carry a small emergency kit that includes medical supplies and bike supplies for quick repairs on the road.
• Failing To Obey Bicycle Laws – The California Vehicle Code has specific laws relating to bicycles. You need to know the bicycle laws and obey bicycle laws for your safety and the safety of others on the road. As a bicyclist, you have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. If you cause an accident, you can be held responsible for injuries to others just like a negligent driver can be held responsible if he or she hits a bicyclist.

Do You Need A California Bicycle Lawyer?

If you have been injured in a bicycle crash, contact Tiemann Law Firm for a free consultation with one of our experienced Sacramento bicycle attorneys. Call (916) 999-9000 or chat with a representative on our website to schedule a time for a free case evaluation.