Would you be surprised to learn that in the last decade, the number of people in the United States who commute via bike has gone up by 46%? In California, the number of bike commuters is even higher than other states. If you ride a bike – or are considering doing so – then we hope you’ll take steps to stay safe. Read on to get tips but if you are injured in a bicycle accident, please reach out to Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
Tips for riding a bike in a residential area
Most people will start out their commute in a residential area. If that’s you, then keep these tips in mind:
- Wear a helmet. If you are involved in an accident or the helmet suffers a heavy impact, replace the helmet.
- Ride in a straight line. This makes it much easier for a car to go around you if necessary.
- Wear clothes that are fitted. You don’t want part of your pants to get caught in the chain of your bike.
- Don’t use your cell phone or other electronic device that could distract you.
- Wear bright colors and / or reflective gear if you ride at night or at dusk.
- Stop at every stop sign and red light. Follow the same rules you would if you were driving a car.
- When riding at night, use a white light in the front and a red light on the back of your bike.
- Bike in the same direction traffic is moving.
- Stay on the right of the lane you’re in. if the street is narrow enough that a car couldn’t pass you, then you may want to ride in the middle of the lane to ensure you can be seen.
- Keep both hands on the handlebars at all times.
- Stay out of the blind spot of driers.
Of course, there’s no tip that can keep you safe 100% of the time. That said, these tips can go a long way toward ensuring that you’re as safe as possible.
Have you been injured in a bike accident?
Have you been in a bike accident with another bike, a motorist, or someone else? If so, then you may have a right to sue for damages. For example, if you were hit by a car and suffered a broken bone, you could sue not only for medical bills but for lost wages, damage to your bike, and several other damages. The reality is that if you were injured as the result of someone else acting recklessly or negligently then they should be responsible for your damages.
If you want to know if you have a case, then your first step is to call Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707. We’ll start with a free consultation during which we’ll cover the basics of your case. We can give our best legal advice about how to move forward. Today is the day to find out what your options are. Call us now.
