We’ve been talking about the safety of bicyclists for some time now, and with good reason. They’re up against some serious dangers out there. But now, they’ve got a lot of support on their side. The entire month of May has been dedicated National Bike Month.
According to The League of American Bicyclists, Bike to Work Week is May 13-17 and Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 17. Bike to School Day is May 8. Until we can remove Florida from the number one spot as the most dangerous state in the country for these kinds of accidents, we better keep on working on safety.
During National Bike Month, don’t overlook the critical importance of bicycle safety. Our Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident lawyers understand that there are a plethora of places for locals and visitors to bicycle in Broward. Whichever route you decide to take, it’s important that you take it safely.
Here a few bicycling tips from Broward County officials to help you to ensure a safer trip:
-Watch for the Yield. Among the most common types of accidents are those caused by failure on the part of the bicyclist or motorist to yield the right-of-way at driveways and intersections. Before crossing the street or proceeding across a driveway, you always want to make sure that you make eye contact with drivers. You want to ensure that they see you.
-Wrong-Way Riding. You never want to ride against traffic. Always ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as traffic. You want to make sure that you can be seen within a motorist’s natural scanning zone. Not only is it safer to ride on the right side of the road, it’s the law.
-Lookout for Parked Cars. When riding through parking lots or in areas with street-side parking, be on the lookout for opening doors. Although the motorists are required by law to be on the lookout for you, we can’t always rely on their safe habits.
-Keep Communication. You want your riding maneuvers to be as predictable and as well-communicated as possible. Make sure your turns and maneuvers are always signaled. Letting drivers know where you’re headed is one serious step in preventing an accident.
-Keep Scanning. You always want to be aware of your surroundings. Staying one step ahead of the traffic around you will help to reduce the risks of an accident.
If you choose to take the plunge and start riding instead of driving, there are a few things that you are going to want to know. Choose your route carefully. The best route to work by bicycle may not be the same way you drive. Try a few different routes to see how they compare. Take a few shakedown rides to get used to your bike and riding in traffic. Do this at a time when you are not in a hurry so you can stop if you need to, or check alternate routes.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a bicycle accident, contact Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez, LLC for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Call 1-800-561-7777.
More Blog Entries:
South Florida Bicycle Accidents a Spring and Summer Risk, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, April 12, 2013
Bicycle Rally for Safety in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, January 17, 2013