The Precautions Austinites Should Take to Prevent Bicycle Accidents

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Accidents involving bicycles can cause severe and long-lasting injuries for bicyclists. Data from the Texas Department of Transportation shows that over 2,300 bicycle have collisions occurred across the state in recent years. Among these incidents were 326 suspected serious injuries and 1,124 minor injuries. Like other types of tragic incidents, accidents involving bicycles can occur in a variety of ways, and there may be multiple liable parties after the accident.

Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include distracted/reckless riding or overspeeding. Let’s discuss the safety measures for bicycle enthusiasts and cyclists in Austin seeking precautions to avoid accidents.

1. Obey Traffic Rules

Austin bicycle accident lawyers encourage riders to follow the same rules as drivers. Ride in traffic direction, obey traffic rules, follow lane markings and stop signs, and use hand signals when turning.

2. Choose the Right Bike Size

Generally, choosing the right bike size is advisable to prevent bicycle accidents in Austin. Consult with the salesperson when shopping for a bike and check the sizes based on your height before choosing.

3. Avoid Distractions

Riders should avoid distractions on the road to prevent bicycle accidents in Austin. Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid wearing headphones while riding.

4. Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Keep both hands on the handlebars to control the bicycle fully. Also, maintain a safe distance from nearby vehicles to avoid hazards associated with pavement unevenness and portholes. It lets you react quickly if a car suddenly slows down or stops.

5. Educate Yourself

Learning local cycling laws and the best practices can keep bikers safe from accidents. Consider reading up on bicycle safety or taking a cycling safety course to learn the applicable rules.

6. Stay Visible

Riders should wear reflective clothing to ensure other people can see them. Additionally, the bike should be equipped with lights and reflectors at the rear and front when riding at night.

7. Regular Bike Maintenance

Ensure your bike is well-maintained to prevent bicycle accidents in Austin. Regularly check the gears, tires, and brakes for wear and tear. A bike in good working condition is less likely to cause an accident.

8. Use Bike Lanes and Paths

Riders in Austin should use the designated bike paths and lanes. They create a distance between speeding vehicles and give bikers a place on the roadway. Using these lanes improves traffic flow and provides a safer environment for riders.

9. Ride Defensively and Avoid Poor Weather

Defensive cycling means preparing for unexpected maneuvers while anticipating other road users’ actions and assuming drivers may not see you. Also, avoid adverse weather conditions, such as ice, fog, or heavy rain, which make the road slippery and reduce visibility.

10. Avoid Alcohol

To prevent bicycle accidents in Austin, cyclists should avoid drinking alcohol before riding. Also, staying away from roads plied by drunk drivers is advisable.

11. Be Cautious at Intersections

Austin bikers should be cautious when turning or crossing at intersections, as they’re common sites for accidents. It’s advisable to make eye contact or signal the driver to ensure they see you.

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12. Know Your Limits

Whether riding through a rough path or dealing with heavy traffic, don’t push beyond your skill level. Learn your limits, don’t try new tricks, and ride slowly to avoid accidents.

A Bonus Tip to Protect Yourself

While wearing a helmet won’t prevent accidents, it can significantly reduce the injuries you might sustain in an accident. Wearing a helmet is an effective way to protect your head in case of a collision or a fall. Ensure the helmet meets safety standards and fits snugly before hitting the bike lanes or path.