Bicycle Safety Tips for Summer | DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog

Bicycle accidents bring nearly half a million people into U.S. emergency rooms each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  Approximately 700 of those patients die as a result of their injuries.  Bicycles can be dangerous for kids and adults, alike.  Before you take to the road or trail next time, be sure to take your health and safety into consideration. AAA offers these bicycle safety tips for people of all ages:

• “Wear a helmet that fits properly. A bicycle helmet should fit comfortable and snug.  Helmet straps should always be buckled.
• Help drivers to see you. Wear light or brightly colored clothing. Make sure your bike is equipped with reflectors.
• Ride on the right side of the road, with the flow of traffic.
• When riding in a group, form a single line on the right-hand side of the roadway. Be sure to leave plenty of room between you and the bike in front of you, in case you need to stop suddenly.
• Don’t take chances, and don’t wear headphones.  Watch what is going on around you.  Safe bicycle riding requires your full attention.”

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration also offers these suggestions for riding on sidewalks in metropolitan areas:

• “Check the law in your State or jurisdiction to make sure sidewalk riding is allowed.
• Watch for vehicles coming out of or turning into driveways.
• Stop at corners of sidewalks and streets to look for cars and to make sure the drivers see you before crossing.
• Enter a street at a corner and not between parked cars. Alert pedestrians that you are near by saying, ‘Excuse me,’ or, ‘Passing on your left,’ or use a bell or horn.”

Previously on the D.C. Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

• Tips for taking your baby on your bicycle
• Tips regarding helmet use
• Safety tips for nighttime riding

If you or a family member believes that you have a case involving a personal injury, please contact us on-line at Regan Zambri & Long or call us at (202) 463-3030 for a free consultation.  If you would like to receive our complimentary electronic newsletter, please click here.

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