Cycling, though highly enjoyable and very good exercise, can be a very dangerous form of transportation. In the hierarchy of road vehicles, bicycles rank pretty much on the lowest end - that’s just the ugly truth. So, when it comes to cycling, there are a few things that are crucial for you to be aware of. This will not only keep you safe on the road but will save you a lot of trouble should anything ever happen.
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Protective Gear
This is probably the most important aspect of road cycling. Firstly, ALWAYS wear a helmet. Most cycling deaths are due to head injuries because cyclists tend to ride without helmets. Secondly, wear fluorescent clothing - this will ensure that people won’t be able to miss you regardless of what time of day or whatever the weather may be like. Make sure you always wear protective eyewear as well, you can’t have anything like dust or wind damaging your vision and ability to see what's going on around you.
Road Behavior
Before changing lanes, give the correct signal and provide ample time for vehicles to observe you. Always ride with the traffic as well, never against it. Also, follow all the road signs and rules, even if no one else is obeying them. Remember - you are most at risk when it comes to drivers on the road, so you need to be a lot more careful than anybody else as well.
Keep your eyes open
Whether you've pulled off on the side of the road, or are in a slow-moving street - always keep your eyes open. Keep your eyes on the road as well - be on the lookout for any damages such as potholes, puddles that may have harmful objects in them as well as loose dirt on the ground. When it comes to other drivers, unfortunately, you’ll have to be their eyes as well. People tend to not be as observing as they should be, especially if it’s a road they travel on often. That being said, you need to keep an eye on them as well to see what their behavior is and act accordingly.
Be Prepared
In the unlikely event that something should happen, you need someone on your side to fight your battles for you. As said before, cyclists are not very respected on the road and can be blamed if there’s an accident - even if it wasn't your fault. Choosing a lawyer for bike accident cases could save you a lot of trouble and money should anything ever happen. This will not only let you sleep a little easier at night but will give you peace of mind when on the road.
After all of the above, it is of utmost importance to accept the fact that other drivers will put themselves before you just because you're on a bicycle. Consider the fact that you do not have as much protection as they do, so you are more vulnerable and therefore should be much more careful. It may feel a bit paranoid from your side at the beginning, but thinking about all of these aspects may not only make you more prepared when on the road but may also save your life in the future.
