When riding a bicycle through the streets of Henderson or driving in areas with heavy bicycle traffic, taking the right safety precautions can make a big difference in accident risk. Taking the right bicycle safety and preventative measures in Henderson not only decreases the odds of an accident, but it can also decrease the severity of injuries and help avoid liability in the event of a collision.
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident that was not your fault, a dedicated bicycle accident attorney could help you seek compensation.
Henderson cyclists must often take precautions to reduce the risk of an accident and keep themselves safer on the road. These include:
While state law does not require cyclists of any age to wear a helmet, helmet use can significantly reduce the risk of head, neck, and facial injuries in an accident. Cyclists should choose a helmet that fits well and ensure they wear it correctly.
Cyclists should follow the same rules of the road as drivers. That includes stopping at stop signs and red lights and yielding the right of way when necessary. When cyclists fail to follow the rules of the road, they can end up in devastating situations.
State law prohibits cyclists from riding their bicycles on freeways and on certain highways, where signs will indicate that cyclists should exit the road. Cyclists who ride in these areas may face higher levels of danger and an increased risk of accidents.
Bike lanes are designated areas intended to provide safer paths for cyclists. They run alongside standard roadways and give cyclists a route to their destination without the presence of motor vehicles.
Damaged bicycles, including bikes with underinflated tires or mechanical problems that make them difficult to operate, can significantly increase the risk cyclists face on the road.
Not only should cyclists follow a few essential bicycle safety and preventive measures in Henderson, but drivers may also need to take some steps to help reduce the risk of accidents for those who share the road with them.
Bike lanes exist for cyclists, not for vehicles. Drivers should not encroach on bike lanes, including easing into the lane to pass a stopped vehicle or avoid an obstacle.
Often, drivers struggle to share the road safely with cyclists. They may feel that they should have the right of way or that the cyclist should get out of their way. However, as part of sharing the road safely with cyclists, drivers should yield right of way when indicated and allow cyclists full rights on the road.
In areas with bike lanes, heavy bicycle traffic, or parks where cycling is common, drivers should take extra care to look out for cyclists. When they notice a cyclist on the road, drivers should keep track of the cyclist’s location to make sure they do not collide with them. In addition, drivers should look twice before opening their doors in areas with cyclists.
Even if you follow all relevant bicycle safety and preventative measures in Henderson, you can still end up suffering significant injuries in an accident. A lawyer can help you look over the conditions that led to your accident and determine who bears liability. Contact us today to discuss your right to compensation after a bicycle accident.
