Depending on your profession and where you work, you may find that you’re able to commute via bicycle. For many people, this is more efficient than driving their car or taking public transportation.
While there are many benefits of biking to work, such as the ability to save money on fuel, you can’t afford to overlook the safety risk of doing so. Any time you’re biking in close proximity to moving vehicles, it’s imperative to follow these tips.
- Make your intentions known: Drivers can’t read your mind, so make your intentions known by using hand signals and making eye contact. It’s these little things that can go a long way in helping you avoid trouble.
- Use a bike lane, when available: If you have the opportunity to ride in a bike lane, you should always choose to do so. It’s safer to ride here than on the sidewalk, the shoulder of the road or in traffic.
- Watch for recently parked vehicles: Once someone parks on the side of the road, it won’t be long before they open their door to exit. Don’t focus so much time on moving vehicles that you forget about the possibility of a door opening into your path of travel.
A bicycle-car accident can cause a variety of serious injuries, such as a concussion, broken bones, soft tissue tears and deep cuts and abrasions.
If you’re injured in this type of accident, call 911 for help at the scene and transportation to a local hospital.
As you recover, contact your insurance company, learn more about the accident and decide if you’re able to take steps to hold the negligent driver responsible for your injuries.
