Here at My Cycling Claim, we specialise in dealing with bike accident claims for people who have been injured through no fault of their own. Dealing with cycling accident claims every day gives our bike accident lawyers an insight into the common causes of accidents, whether they are the fault of a the cyclist themselves or the result of another person’s actions. There are several simple steps you can take to make your cycling experience safer and to reduce your chances of being injured in a cycling accident. Here are the My Cycling Claim team’s 5 top tips for safer cycling.
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Plan ahead
We all know the phrase “failing to prepare means preparing to fail” and this couldn’t be truer when talking about cycling. Choosing your route carefully before you set out is a great way to reduce the amount of time you spend on busier roads. Ideally you should use quieter roads in residential areas – preferably with plenty of space to manoeuvre in case you meet a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. Also leave plenty of time to make your journey – if you are in a rush you are far more likely to not pay attention or to take unnecessary risks.
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Get tooled up
Before going for a ride you should make sure your bike is in tip top condition, with fully inflated tires, working brakes and that nothing on the bike is loose or unsecured. It is also important that your bike is fitted with important safety equipment to make you a visible as possible to other road users. This safety equipment should include front and rear reflectors, headlights and rear lights (especially if you are riding at night), a horn or bell and if you want to go the extra mile, rear-view mirrors that can be fitted on your handlebars.
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Dress to impress
Wearing the proper clothing when you are out cycling won’t just keep you warm and dry, it might also protect you if you are involved in an accident, such as a collision with another vehicle. Always wear a properly fitted cycling helmet that conforms to the UK safety standard for helmets (BS EN 1078:1997 in case you were curious). Try to wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing whilst on your bike to make it hard for other road users to miss you; after all being seen is the best way to avoid being hit. If you are out cycling at night wear a reflective jacket or vest.
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Follow the rules of the road and stay alert
As a road user you must follow the rules of the road and stay within the law at all times. Staying out of danger on the road means staying alert. You should use your mirrors to check what is happening all around your bike so that you can react quickly to other vehicles. Make sure to use clear hand signals when turning and give yourself plenty of space and time to make a manoeuvre (if you need to, use your horn or bell to give an audible warning when making a turn). Cycle in a straight line and avoid swerving around parked cars or in and out of traffic. You should also be familiar with the Highway Code and follow all the applicable rules just like any other road user.
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Cycle safe, cycle defensively
Be on your guard for hazards on the road whilst you are riding. Pot holes, puddles, loose road surfaces, litter and parked cars all pose a risk. It isn’t just static obstacles – other vehicles, pedestrians and even animals can make sudden erratic manoeuvres that you will have to allow for and react quickly to. When negotiating parked cars or objects in the road, cycle slightly to the right to avoid any car doors that may suddenly open. Make sure to check behind you before making a turn or before changing lanes to avoid a collision with a vehicle that may be attempting to pass you. Finally, make sure to double check all situations, even if it seems obvious – it is best to ride and act as if you cannot be seen by other road users – take nothing for granted and always put your safety first.
