Riding a bike in the fall in New England can be one of the most satisfying experiences with the changing of the leave colors on the trees. Unfortunately, this is also a good time for bicycle accidents to increase in frequency, as night comes sooner and it becomes increasingly hard to see in the evenings.
How Can Bicyclists Prevent Accidents?
Here are a few safety tips for bicyclists to keep in mind when riding:
- Always wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet (flat on your head and buckled in).
- Ride in a straight line and single file.
- Go with the flow of traffic by riding on the right side in the same direction with other vehicles.
- Ride with both hands on the handlebars except when signaling a turn or stop.
- Stop and look both ways for traffic before entering a street or intersection.
- Walk your bicycle across any intersection.
- Stay alert by looking out for things that could make you fall like potholes, cracks, pebbles, etc.
- Always listen for traffic and do not wear headphones.
- Watch for parked cars and cars pulling out or into parking spaces or driveways.
- Check your equipment by making sure the bike tires are properly inflated and the breaks are in working order.
- Increase your visibility to drivers by wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing.
- At night especially, use a front light and a red reflector or flashing red light on your bike.
How Can Automobiles Help Prevent Bicycle Accidents?
A bicyclists could do all of the listed recommend steps above to prevent an accident but still become a victim. That is why drivers need to be cautious of pedestrians and bicyclists on the road. Drivers should wait a few seconds prior to entering any intersection to ensure no other cars, bicyclists, or pedestrians are trying to cross.
It is also important for cars to have their lights on at dusk so that drivers can recognize and avoid any bicyclists on the road way. Lastly, although not the same as a car, bicyclists have as much of a right to be on the road as any other vehicle, and therefore, drivers need to remember to share the road and be cautious of fellow biking travelers.
Contact an Experienced RI Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a RI Bicycle Accident, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering, among other losses. Our lawyers have over 20 years of experience with these types of cases. Feel free to call us today 24/7 toll-free at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out an online contact form for a free (no obligation) case evaluation.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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