While cooler temperatures may be rolling into other parts of the country, we in Florida continue to enjoy the perks of warmer weather — including cycling. With additional benefits such as avoiding the costs of fuel and skipping out on traffic, along with many others, cycling might even be your preferred means of transportation.
However, with less in the way of protective barriers in this form of travel, you may also have some concerns about your safety. Since bicycles also have less maneuverability than other vehicles, gaining an understanding of the hazards you may face as a cyclist could be essential to preventing a disaster.
Scenarios that may pose a threat to cyclists
While any accident runs the risk of being dangerous, those involving cyclists have a much higher chance of ending in catastrophe. However, you may be able to reduce the odds of that happening by knowing some of the more prevalent causes of bicycle-related accidents, which could include the following:
- Intersections: As a cyclist, it is advisable to use extreme caution when approaching an intersection. Even though you may have the right of way, if a vehicle fails to notice you and turns in your path, you may be the one who suffers.
- Traffic lights: While you have the same rights as a cyclist as anyone else on the road, that doesn’t necessarily guarantee your safety, and assuming a vehicle will stop and wait for you to cross at a traffic light could prove detrimental.
- Blind spots: While riding near other vehicles, taking care to avoid staying in the blind spot of another driver is advisable. If a driver fails to notice you, a sudden turn into your path could place you in harm’s way.
- Visibility: Bicycles are inherently smaller and more difficult to see than other vehicles and taking measures to increase your visibility, such as wearing bright clothing and equipping your bike with lights and reflectors, could help you avoid a disaster.
Although following traffic laws and safe cycling procedures can go a long way in safeguarding your health, it might not always be enough. If you are hit by a car while out riding your bike, chances are, you may suffer severe injuries in the process.
Pursuing restitution
A bicycle-related collision can change your life in an instant, potentially prompting a need for long-term or permanent medical treatment. The financial ramifications of such an event can be exceedingly troublesome, and if the other party is at fault, you may be in search of some much-needed restitution. However, the process can be stressful and intimidating, and seeking guidance from someone with extensive knowledge in this area could prove beneficial in preparing you to pursue the compensation you deserve through a personal injury claim.
