Updated on: 7/8/2020
Avoid Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is a great way to stay in shape, save money and live a green lifestyle. However, throughout the year in Seattle, there have been many fatal bicycle accidents that have concerned cyclists of their safety. While motorized vehicles and bicycles need to learn to share the road, cyclists need to be even more careful because they are the ones at risk of serious injury.
The Most Common Bicycle Crash
The most common way to get hit on a bike is when a vehicle is pulling out of a side street, parking lot or driveway. It may be difficult for them to see you due to parked cars on the street, garbage cans and other barriers.
You Can Avoid Bicycle Accidents By:
- Using a headlight. At night, there is no excuse for not using a headlight. You should always use a headlight. But, even in the daylight, riding with a headlight that has a flashing mode can make you more visible to motorists.
- Waving your arm. Sometimes it is not possible to make eye contact with the driver, so the next best move is to wave your arm. They will be more likely to see you. If that doesn’t work, yelling ‘hey’ or ‘look out’ could be effective.
- Slowing down around cars. If you are riding slow, than you will be able to completely stop right away if you need to and the impact of hitting a car will not be as serious.
- Considering your location in the lane. Most cyclists ride close to the curb in the bike lane to prevent being hit from behind. However, if the driver behind you is looking up ahead, they may not notice you if you are out of their view, by being too close to the curb.