Bicycle Safety Tips for Night Riding

Cycling is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and also offers transportation that is good for the environment. If you ride your bike to work, there is a good chance you have to ride at night, at least during certain parts of the year.

Bicycle safety is incredibly important but cycle safety at night is a must. It will be more difficult for cars to see you after dusk and you need to be proactive about your safety. There are other dangers when riding after dark, aside from vehicles, also.

Here are some important bicycle safety tips for night riding:

  • Don’t ride alone if you can help it.
  • use bike lights on the front and rear of your bike.
  • Be sure someone knows where you are.
  • Use reflective gear on your bike.
  • Wear reflective clothing.
  • Ride on a lighted bike path when there is one available.
  • Wear clear cycling glasses or safety glasses.
  • Go slow and be prepared for unexpected obstacles and even bumps in the road.
  • Add reflective tape to you and your bike.
  • Slow down. You may be experienced and fit enough to ride fast during the day but just like driving a vehicle at night, you should slow your bike’s speed when the sun goes down.

These are just a few basic tips to help prepare you for night riding your bike. You should always plan ahead, have the right bike and the right equipment for doing so.

Now that you have these tips, you are better prepared for riding safely at night. If you have other questions about bicycle safety or bicycle law, contact us today.

What to Do if You are in a Bicycle Accident

Bicycle accidents can be extremely dangerous. If someone hits you while you are on your bike, it is important to hire an attorney — such as from the Law Office of Gary Brustin — to help you with your case. To help ensure that your case goes well, follow these steps after your bicycle accident.

Call the Police

First of all, you should call the police immediately. You will need to have a police report in-hand that documents the accident.

Get Witness Information

Did anyone see the accident? If so, you will need to gather witness information. Jot down the name and telephone number for any witnesses. Then, give this information to your attorney.

Take Pictures

If you are physically able to do so and have a camera or a smartphone, consider taking pictures of the accident scene. Snap photos of your bicycle, any visible injuries that you might have, the vehicle that you hit you and any skid marks on the road.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel injured, it is very important to seek medical attention after your accident. You might have injuries that you aren’t aware of yet, and getting treatment right away can help with your recovery. Plus, you will need documentation from a medical professional if you are planning on filing a lawsuit.

Taking the right steps after a bicycle accident can help you handle your case in the best way possible. Along with taking these steps, contact us at the Law Office of Gary Brustin if you need legal representation.

You’re Never Too Old to Practice Bicycle Safety

According to this article in The Idaho Statesmanbicycle safety is no longer an issue solely reserved for the younger population. It states the mortality rate of adults ages 35 to 54 has tripled…yes, tripled…in the past 40 years, while the rates for children have declined dramatically. Some of this is due in part to an overall increase in bicycle popularity (especially in big cities), it is also caused by an almost general societal understanding that only children need reminders about staying safe while cycling.

The first and most important rule of the road for cyclists: wear a helmet! The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) says that no state currently requires adult riders to wear helmets, while 21 states and some US territories have enacted laws for cyclists below a certain age, often either 16 or 18.

Knowing hand signals and following traffic laws are also essential components of bicycle safety. Relying on your senses and the responsibility and responsiveness of drivers and other riders is not enough to keep you safe. Brush up on your state driving and cycling laws by visiting your local licensing department.

Even the most prepared and aware cyclist can find themselves involved in an accident. Knowing what to do when that happens before it happens can help alleviate the stress of dealing with medical bills, insurance claims and all the other tasks required when an accident happens. We encourage you to contact us to answer any questions you have about bicycle accidents and what to do if you are involved in one.

Bicyclists – Beware of Road Rage

Road rage describes aggressive driving or actions by a motorist with the intent to cause harm to someone else who is sharing the road. These actions are usually triggered when the driver is already feeling stressed or agitated about outside factors, such as running late to work or getting caught in traffic. Road rage can result in criminal charges against the driver ranging from reckless driving to assault with a deadly weapon. Unfortunately, road rage incidents are all-too-common in Los Angeles, and can be especially dangerous for bicyclists. In addition to good bicycle safety practices, it’s important for riders to know how to respond in the event of road rage.

The best way to avoid a road rage altercation is to be alert while riding. Avoid vehicles that appear to be driving erratically or have a driver that looks to be agitated. If a vehicle engages in taunting or aggressive behavior while you are on your bicycle the urge may be great to reciprocate, but it’s your responsibility to respond in a way that does not lead to an altercation or injury.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts to avoid an altercation, another driver will lash out. If this happens – especially if you experience personal injury or property damage as a result – it’s essential that you are able to accurately recall critical information and details. If possible, take a few pictures or videos using your phone, but only if it can be done discretely as not to appear antagonizing to the other person involved. Also, take note of information such as license plate numbers, the location where the road rage occurred, and anyone who may have witnessed the event.

If you are injured as a result of road rage, do not leave the scene. Call 911 for help immediately.

Section 21200 of the California legal code states that a person riding a bicycle has all the rights and is subject to all the same provisions as a driver of a motor vehicle. If you were in an accident that you believe was the result of someone violating these rights or experiencing road rage, you need an attorney who specializes in representing injured bicyclists. Contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Five tips to avoid a Bicycle Accident

bicycle accident can leave you injured, and have you miss work for months. The impact of a bicycle accident will be felt for years, but it is simple to avoid an accident. Follow these tips and remain safe on the road.

1. Pay attention to traffic:

High traffic areas are especially dangerous for bikers. Try your best to avoid the high traffic areas in your town. If you cannot avoid high traffic areas, then you should pay attention to the vehicles around you. By keeping an eye on traffic, you can act before an accident occurs.

2. Pick the right size bike:

A poorly fitted bike will prove difficult to control. Losing control of your bicycle could lead to a significant accident. Buy the right bike and stay in control throughout your ride.

3. Watch out for pedestrians:

Colliding with a pedestrian can be catastrophic. During the collision, you could be launched from your bike. The pedestrian will also be injured. Keep an eye out for pedestrians to ensure your safety.

4. Wear bright clothing:

Colliding with a motorist can change your life. Cars need to see you, so they can give you space. Wear a bright jacket or shirt to ensure that you will be visible while you are on the road.

5. Avoid blind spots:

A bicycle is an extremely small vehicle, which makes it easy for a bike to slip into a blind spot. Riding in a blind spot could lead to a car merging into you. Make sure you avoid blind spots while on the road and you will remain safe.

Bicycle accidents are extremely dangerous, but with the right steps you can avoid an accident. Contact us to receive more tips on bicycle safety.