Bicycling is great exercise, and in the Colorado summer, it can also be a great deal of fun and help save on transportation costs and the environment. However, many types of accidents can befall a bicyclist when drivers are careless or distracted.
While most bicyclists fear rear-end collisions from cars, these types of accidents are rare, comprising only about 3.8 percent of all bicycle crashes. There are also several ways a bicyclist can protect himself or herself from a rear-end collision:
- Use visibility aids. A mirror, a taillight, and bright or reflective clothing can all either help you see other vehicles or help drivers see you. Seeing and being seen both reduce your chances of a bicycle crash.
- Don’t swerve in and out of the lane or hug the curb. Many bicyclists believe it is safer to ride in the parking lane when possible or to hug the curb, moving out toward traffic only to pass an obstacle like a parked car. However, this increases the chances a driver will fail to anticipate a bicycle’s movements and cause a rear-end crash. It is safest to maintain a straight and steady course in the driving lane.
- Always look and always signal. Never move left without looking behind you first, whether in a mirror or over your shoulder. Practice riding in a straight line while looking over your shoulder in a parking lot or other traffic-free zone until you can do it well, or get a mirror for your bicycle or helmet. Always signal with your left arm before you move or turn left.
- When possible, choose wide streets, slow streets, and/or side streets. These conditions make it less likely a driver will come up behind you quickly, reducing the chances of a rear-end crash.
If you’re injured in a bike accident this summer, the skilled Colorado Springs bicycle accident attorneys at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. can help. Call us today at (719) 475-2555 to learn more.