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Prevent Bicycle Accidents With These Tips

Posted on 02 Jun 2011 by admin | Filled under: health-and-safety

A bicycle accident is terrifying because the whole body is so highly exposed on a bicycle that serious injuries are not only possible, they're probable.The risks to cyclists come from all angles:vehicles whose drivers don't see you, swinging car doors, pedestrians crossing streets outside the crosswalk, potholes, sewer grates, road debris, loose dogs, you name it. Even alert cyclists wearing helmets can find themselves in a scary situation.

Kids and teens are especially vulnerable because of their inexperience in watching out for these dangers.It's not enough to wear a helmet and follow the law.You need to pay attention.Put away the iPod and listen to your surroundings.If you can hear a vehicle behind you or pulling out of a driveway in front of you, you have time to react and prevent the bicycle accident from happening at all.

These bicycle safety tips can help you and your kids stay safe:

1. Always wear a helmet, and make sure it fits properly.Nearly one third of bike-related injuries involves a head injury.Wearing a properly fitted bike helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent.

2. Obey the rules of the road.Bicycles need to adhere to the same traffic laws as motorists. This includes stop signs and traffic lights.Make sure the rider has taken a bicycle safety course.

3. Avoid riding after dark.If you must ride at night, make sure your bike has a headlight,a red rear reflector or taillight, and add reflectors to the tires or wear reflective leg bands to be seen from all sides.Get, and wear, a reflective vest if your night riding will be common.

4. Signal your stops and turns to alert drivers of your next move.

5. When passing a pedestrian or slow vehicle, make sure to let them know you are there.If you don't have a bell, a friendly shout "on your left!" will suffice. Always pass to the left.

6. Obey the right-of-way.And yield to pedestrians.

7. Move with traffic and stay as close to the right side of the road as is safely possible.If there is a designated bicycle lane, be sure to stay within it, as that is where drivers will be looking for you.

8. Make sure the bike fits.You should be able to stand over your bicycle with 1-2 inches between you and the top bar.3-4 inches if using a mountain bike. The seat should be level, and at a height that allows a slight bend at the knee in the fully extended leg.

9. Practice good bike maintenance.Inspect the bike often and keep the tires properly inflated and brakes in working order.

By following these bicycle safety tips, you can enjoy a leisurely ride around the neighborhood, or a healthy commute.Stay alert and stay safe!