Bicycling is an efficient means of short-distance traveling. It requires no fuel and keeps one fit. It is also one of the most popular modes of transportation because it requires little maintenance. But like any other means of travel, bicycles can also be involved in accidents.
Since the popularity of bicycles is still fairly new and their numbers are not as great as cars, bicycles do not have access to many places. Many neighborhoods, even in big cities, do not have bicycle lanes, which further contributes to the chances and occurrence of bicycle accidents.
Like any other place, bicycle accidents in Carson City can occur due to bicyclists’ mistakes. However, bicyclists can lower their chances of experiencing accidents by following these tips:
1. Keeping Up With Bicycle Maintenance
Bicycles require regular maintenance and upkeep like any other mode of transport. Bicycle maintenance includes ensuring the tightness of nuts and bolts, lubricating the drivetrain, inflating tires, and adjusting brakes and brake pads. Adjusting the bicycle’s seat height also gives bicyclists greater control over their vehicle.
2. Learning and Following Traffic Rules
Traffic rules apply to all vehicles on the road, big or small. Bicyclists must be aware of road signs and signal cues to stay safe. They must also follow the rules applicable to them, such as wearing helmets.
Car owners have often expressed how they are often unable to detect bicycles on the road. For this reason, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention advices bicyclists to wear florescent and reflective clothing when riding their bicycle during the day and night, respectively. This increases the bicyclists’ visibility on the road by making them unmissable and enhances their safety.
Furthermore, bicycle accidents in Carson City can be avoided by following the state laws for bicyclists and motorists. These include:
- Staying on the right side of the road
- Riding in single file
- Maintaining a distance of 3 feet from the vehicle on the side or in front
- Keeping an eye on the cars approaching from the back or side
- Always being ready to stop
- Adding a white lamp in front, a red tail reflector at the back, and reflective stickers on the sides
- Riding a correct-sized bike
- Not wavering through the road
- Signaling before turning and changing lanes
3. Avoiding Road Dangers
Wet, oil-spilled, and broken roads can be more dangerous to bicyclists than those riding in big vehicles. Therefore, avoiding such roads is the best way to avoid bicycle accidents in Carson City.
What to Do if You Suffer From a Bicycle Accident?
Accidents can happen despite all safety measures, as one can only control their behavior and vehicle on the road. Since bicycles do not offer much protection on the road, victims of bicycle accidents can experience serious harm to their health. Head, brain, neck, back, spinal cord, and internal organ injuries are common for bicycle accident victims. They can also suffer from fractured bones, skull fractures, hemorrhage, and concussions.
The harm experienced from a bicycle accident can result in physical pain, medical expenses, loss of income due to being unable to work, lowered quality of life, and many other issues. Thus, contacting an attorney with experience with traffic cases becomes essential for victims of bicycle accidents in Carson City to seek compensation for the damages.
If you or a loved one suffer a bicycle accident because of another bicyclist’s or a car owner’s mistake, seek legal help immediately by contacting a personal injury lawyer at Bourassa Law Group. Call 800-870-8910 or click here to contact us now.
1-800-870-8910