Posted in Wisconsin Workers Compensation Related News
Many people enjoy bike riding as a way to exercise or just have fun. There are also a lot of people who choose to use a bike riding as a way to commute to work or run errands. As healthy as bike riding is, it can also be dangerous because of the high risks there are of injuries in the event of a bike accident.
It is not uncommon for a cyclist to suffer catastrophic injuries or even death after a collision with a vehicle. This is because there is no protection between the bike and vehicle upon impact. And that force is usually so strong that the person on the bike is thrown into the air before landing hard on the ground.
Here are some tips to help keep safe if you are on a bike. If you are injured, call a law firm to speak with a bike accident attorney.
Stay Safe
Cyclists should remain aware of their surroundings at all times and not allow themselves to get distracted. Before taking off on your bike, choose which route you will take first. Try to avoid routes where there is heavy traffic or where vehicles can travel at high speeds. Both these scenarios put bike riders in extra danger. It is safer to take routes without these extra hazards.
If a cyclist feels a vehicle is coming up from behind them, they need to listen to the sound of the engine to help determine how fast the vehicle is traveling. Is the engine accelerating? Are the brakes squealing? If you hear a vehicle from behind and it is making these types of sounds, the safest thing to do is to pull over to a safe place and let the vehicle pass you.
It is also critical to bike safety to remember that bike riders are required to follow all the traffic laws of the state they are in, just like vehicle drivers do. Always ride with the flow of the traffic, not against it. Stop at all traffic lights and signs. Yield the right-of-way, just as you would in a vehicle. Make sure to signal if you are turning. Always wear bright clothing and make sure your bike is equipped with lights and reflectors so vehicle drivers can see you, especially if you will be riding after the sun goes down.
If You Are Injured
Even if you follow all the safety rules suggested, there is still a risk of being injured in a bike accident caused by the negligence or reckless driver. If this happens, you may be legally entitled to financial compensation for any losses the injuries caused you. This can include medical expenses, loss of income while you recover, pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and more.
A bicycle accident lawyer in Memphis, TN can evaluate your case and determine what damages you may deserve. Call a law office today to schedule a free consultation.
Thanks to Patterson Bray, for their insight into personal injury claims and bike accidents.
