The summer is a great time to be outside and enjoy the fresh air. Whether on the way to work or doing something recreational, during the warmer months, the number of individuals riding their bicycles increases. But while cruising down the road with the wind in your face can be very relaxing, it can also prove very dangerous. Here are three very important safety measures to take when riding your bike this summer.
- Wear a Helmet – No Matter What
While it may not look “cool,” wearing a helmet when you ride a bike can actually reduce the risk of a fatal head injury by close to 70 percent! According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in 2017, 54 percent of cyclists who were killed in a motor vehicle accident were not wearing a helmet at the time. Although the state laws in New Mexico only legally require individuals under the age of 18 to wear a helmet when on a bicycle, it is evident that the benefits of such can help to prevent head injury and prove to be truly lifesaving.
- Be Sure that You Can Easily Be Seen
One of the biggest risk factors in being involved in an accident while on your bicycle is not being seen. When sharing the road with much larger motorized vehicles, smaller bicycles can easily be overlooked. The more visible you are, the safer you will be. According to scientific research, fluorescent orange, yellow, and red are most visible during the daytime, while nighttime should include the use of other components such as headlamps, tail lamps, reflective clothing, and flashing lights.
- Follow the Rules of the Road
This should go without saying, but unfortunately cannot. As with motor vehicles, it is imperative that bicyclists follow the rules of the road. They do not receive special privileges to ignore the rules simply because they are able to. This means stopping at stop signs and red lights and yielding to pedestrians. Additionally, according to a study conducted in Canada, bicyclists riding in bike lanes experience 50 percent less injuries, while the injuries of those riding in protected bike lanes drops by 90 percent. This is in comparison to those riding in a major city street without a designated lane.
The Attorneys at MPJ Law Firm Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured in a Bicycle Accident
Everyone should be able to ride his or her bicycle safely. And although we cannot prevent the negligent actions of others, we are able to act safely and cautiously ourselves. By remembering these safety tips you can decrease your likelihood of experiencing injury or even prevent death. The impact on a bike can do a lot more damage than a car or truck when involved in an accident. In fact, the injuries sustained can be life changing, affecting everything from your ability to work to your ability to make money.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you should not have to pay for the mistakes of someone else. That is why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experience New Mexico personal injury attorney. At MPJ Law, we will fight to get you what you deserve. To learn more fill out a form or call us at 505-263-2820 today!
Posted in: Personal Injury