Breaking the Cycle - Avoiding California Bicycle Accidents

Bicycles are always on the road, whether it is a family outing or just a college student trying to get around. Cyclists are part of the transportation factor. They have rules and regulations to follow, just like motor vehicles. They have to worry about traffic and stop lights. Unfortunately, most motorists forget to watch out for and be wary of cyclists. When not enough attention is paid, fatal accidents can occur.

Because there are so many more cars on the road than cyclists, those on bicycles should take extra caution when riding around, making sure to follow the guidelines. Those guidelines will keep you safe.

The National Safety Council has made it clear that they believe defensive driving is just as important to those on bicycles to those in motor vehicles. In the year 2007, an estimated 700 cyclists were killed in accidents with cars. An additional 540,000 sustained injuries and ended up in the hospital.

Wear Protective Gear
Obviously, the best protection against situations like these is to wear protective gear whenever you decide to bike around. In fact, two-thirds of biking fatalities occur as a result of a helmetless rider. Protecting your head is key, because it is usually the first thing to fly forward in an accident, making it the most vulnerable to damage.

Know the Regulations
Along with protective gear, such as helmets, knee pads and elbow pads, the National Safety Council provides cyclists with a few more tips to stay as safe as possible while on the hectic roadways. One of the best ways to stay safe is to know the rules on biking. For instance, bicyclists have to obey traffic lights, ride with the flow of traffic, and use turn signals. Becoming familiar with these regulations is a great way to defend against an accident. Also, simple things like wearing clothing that makes you more visible and learning to look over your shoulder often are great items to have in your arsenal.

Always remember to be aware of your surroundings, being careful not to tailgate cars or be in their blind spots. But even when great amounts of precaution are taken, disastrous things still happen.

If You are Hurt in a Southern California Bicycle Accident
If you have been involved in an accident with a car, call the Santa Monica bicycle accident attorneys at Steinberg and Spencer Injury Lawyers at (800) 989-6385 for a free legal consultation. Get the compensation you deserve.

Be sure to order a FREE copy of our controversial book, 7 BIGGEST MISTAKES That Can Ruin Your California Injury Case.