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Countless people love cycling and riding whenever possible. While there are many benefits, there are also significant risks, as accidents involving bikes continue to increase.

Things such as smartphones and higher rates of traffic have led to an increase in bicycle and pedestrian accidents with severe consequences. Countrywide, a majority of the bike-related incidents leading to permanent and life-altering disabilities or death occur in urban areas because of the significant traffic congestion of all vehicle types. Meet with our knowledgeable bike crash lawyer for more about bicycle safety and preventative measures in Waterford.

What Are the Essential Measures to Take?

The essential measures for cyclists involve focusing on preparation, visibility, safety to avoid falls, and predictable behavior. Other crucial things to note for cycling safety and preventative measures in Waterford include the following:

  • Wearing properly CPSC-certified helmets
  • Maintain your safety gear and replace as needed
  • Conduct regular inspections to ensure your bicycle is working correctly, including the brakes, tires, reflectors, and gears
  • Dress for visibility while riding, such as bright clothing and reflectors, and this is especially essential during lower visibility
  • Follow the Connecticut traffic safety rules of the road, such as riding with the flow of traffic, using hand signals, stopping for signs and traffic lights, and yielding to pedestrians
  • Ride defensively by scanning your blind spots, making eye contact with motorists, anticipating hazards, and watching for vehicle doors swinging into your path

Helmets meeting the minimum safety standards reduce the risk of brain injuries significantly, and while only a legal requirement for minors, experts highly suggest them for everyone, regardless of age.

Tips for Motorists to Share the Road

Sadly, bicycle and vehicle-related accidents leading to fatalities are on the rise, and motorists can also be crucial for preventing them by keeping some safety tips in mind. Connecticut traffic laws require drivers to leave at least three feet between themselves and bikes when passing. If there is not enough room, they must wait until there is. Staying alert and ready to react at all times is vital for road safety and the prevention of avoidable crashes.

Keep in mind that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other road users. Drivers can prevent severe accidents by staying alert for cyclists before turning on a red light and reducing their speed when bikes are nearby. Scan for blind spots and remember that bikes, like motorcycles, are much smaller and more challenging to see.

Protecting Your Head Could Save Your Life

The best way to begin every ride on your bicycle is by putting on a safety-certified helmet. According to years of studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, ensuring that it fits your head correctly and you maintain or replace it as needed is just as crucial as wearing one. That includes purchasing a new one after accidents and impacts. Even a slight jolt could damage the shell and decrease the protection it provides.

Crashes between motor vehicles and bikes typically end with the cyclist sustaining the brunt of the injuries. Learning the safety tips and rules of the road, while wearing the available safety gear, particularly helmets meeting the safety standards, is the most effective way to protect yourself while you ride. A knowledgeable lawyer could answer specific questions about Waterford bike safety and preventative measures during the consultation.

Meet With an Experienced Attorney About Waterford Bicycle Safety and Preventative Measures

Keeping yourself safe while out riding requires taking bicycle safety and preventative measures in Waterford. Getting too busy and neglecting to make your health and safety a priority can have negative consequences.

Even so, taking every precaution cannot keep you safe from negligent motorists. If you suffer harm, you have the right to pursue compensation. Call our hard-working and skilled lawyers to schedule an appointment and learn more.

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