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While much emphasis is placed on educating drivers about safely sharing the road with cyclists, it’s equally important for cyclists to understand their role in promoting safety. Diamond and Diamond Lawyers recognizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent accidents and protect cyclists’ rights on the road. In this article, Isaac Zisckind discusses essential safety considerations for cyclists, including proper equipment, road etiquette, and navigating traffic alongside motor vehicles.
Gear Up: Cycling Safety Equipment
First and foremost, it’s important to equip yourself with the right safety gear. Below are a few essentials to cycling safety that should not be overlooked:
- Helmet: Wearing a properly fitted helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in the event of a crash. While a helmet is a great place to start, it’s important to ensure that the helmet you are wearing meets minimum safety standards and is not broken or outdated.
- Reflective Clothing: Simply put, one of the best ways to prevent accidents is to be seen. As such, reflective clothing while out on your bicycle is a must. Reflective vests, bands, and accessories can help drivers spot cyclists from a distance.
- Lights and Reflectors: Another important element of cycling safety is lights and reflectors. If you plan on biking in dimly lit areas or in the dark, it’s important to install lights on your bicycle for enhanced visibility.
Sharing the Road Safely
“As a cyclist, it’s essential to understand how to share the road safely with vehicles,” says Isaac Zisckind. Below are several tips to consider the next time you head out on your bike:
- Ride Safely and Predictably: As a cyclist, it’s important to maintain a straight line and signal your intentions clearly when turning or changing lanes. In addition to this, it’s important to avoid sudden movements and ensure that you do not weave in and out of traffic.
- Obey Traffic Signals: Generally speaking, cyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as motorists. As a result, it’s important to follow all signals, adhere to all stop signs, and follow all right-of-way rules to help prevent collisions.
- Be Visible At All Times: It’s very important to ride where drivers can see you, especially at intersections. In addition to being visible, we strongly recommend making eye contact before proceeding at an intersection.
- When Possible Always Use a Bike Lane: Simply put, bike lanes are meant to be used. If there is a bike lane, avoid driving on the roads and be on the lookout for pedestrians cutting across the bike lane.
- Be Aware: This may sound like common sense, but when you’re biking it’s important to scan the road for potential hazards and anticipate the moves of other people on the road.
Acting as stewards of proper road safety, cyclists can play a vital role in reducing the risk of accidents and fostering a harmonious coexistence with drivers. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. Contact Canada’s largest personal injury law firm today at 1-800-567-HURT.
About Jeremy Diamond
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.
