Fuller Law Firm
408-234-7563
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408-234-7563
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408-234-7563
Riding a bicycle should be a fun and safe activity, whether it is for exercise, commuting to work or school, or just a leisurely trip for some fresh air. But when you are riding in traffic or crossing a busy road, there are risks of dangerous collisions and serious injuries. Bicyclists won’t win in a collision with a motor vehicle, no matter who was at fault for the accident. Here are some tips to keep you riding safely and avoid a bicycle accident.
With over 100 bicyclists killed and over 10,000 injured in accidents every year in California, it is best to be well-prepared and know the top tips to ride safely. Remember these tips next time you are headed out for a ride.
Pick the right bike and gear – Make sure you have the right size bicycle, and it is in good working order. Bicyclists under 18 must wear a helmet when riding on public roads, but it is a good idea for all riders to wear one for protection in case of a crash.
Use proper lights and reflectors - To increase your visibility at night, you must have a front light visible for 300 feet, rear red light or reflector visible for 500 feet, white pedal or ankle reflectors visible for 200 feet, and reflectors on your wheels. You should also wear light-colored clothing so drivers can see you better.
Ride safely in traffic – When on the road, ride with the flow of traffic and in the right-most lane. You can move over when changing lanes to prepare for a left turn, passing a parked car or slower vehicle, or to avoid debris.
Obey the rules of the road – If you are riding in traffic, you must obey all rules of the road, including stop signs and traffic lights. Make appropriate hand signals when making turns and slowing down or stopping.
Watch out for hazards – Keep an eye on the road for potholes, drain grates, glass or other debris, and other objects in the road. Also, watch out for car doors being opened into your path.
Use bike lanes where available – These lanes are designed to mostly keep bicyclists separated from other vehicles on the road. They can be painted with markings, painted green, or sometimes separated with bollards or curbs. When using a bike lane, it is important to watch out for vehicles that merge across the lane when making a right turn.
Properly make a left turn – Turning left across traffic can be an intimidating prospect for a bike rider. There are two basic ways to make a left turn. If riding in traffic, you can make your way over to the left-most lane, and then enter the left turn lane, yielding to oncoming traffic before making your turn. Alternatively, you can stay on the right side of the road and use a crosswalk like you are a pedestrian.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need to contact the San Jose personal injury lawyers at Fuller Law Firm. We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries from the responsible party or parties. Call our office at 408-234-7563 to schedule your free consultation today.
Source:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/special-interest-driver-guides/bicyclists-pedestrians/
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