Cycling Accident Prevention Tips

Sandesh Umate

Nowadays, riding a bicycle is among the favorite hobby among youngsters and it is one of the best exercises for adults as well. Cycling accident prevention tips most discussed topic. Compared to riding motorbikes or cars, cyclists is having less protection and can be more dangerous. But if followed by the proper safety tips these accidents can be avoided and riding a cycle can be safe. Below are a few cycling accident prevention tips.

Using a helmet while riding a bicycle and proper safety gear during the ride won’t offer much protection during a run-in with a motor vehicle. The best way to approach safe riding is to take steps and prevent these incidents before they occur, regardless of who is responsible for the accident.

Bicycle Safety Tips:

When cyclist shares the road with other vehicles, bicycle safety rules is of utmost importance. Here are some tips that can help you stay safe and prevent accidents while on the ride.

Wear a Helmet:

One of the most important cycling accident prevention tips wearing a helmet can protect the head and can reduce the risk of head injury in case of an accident. In some countries, laws for wearing a helmet during a bicycle ride do exist and it is compulsory to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.

While purchasing a bicycle helmet, make sure it meets all the safety standards. Look for one with EPS foam and a thin plastic shell. There should be a sticker on the interior indicating that the helmet meets the safety standards. Regardless of your age, the laws of your state are to always wear a helmet while cycling, even for a short distance.

Ride with the Flow of Traffic

All other vehicles on the road use signals to indicate that they are taking a turn. So, to avoid accidents, keep your eyes on the road and read the signals right. If the bicycle paths are not available, the cyclist has to ride with the flow of traffic.

Watch for aggressive or distracted drivers.

If you notice a vehicle moving erratically or a driver, who is clearly distracted or experiencing road rage, do your best to remove yourself from their immediate surroundings. If necessary, pull off to the side of the road and allow them to pass.

Ride defensively.

Even if you obey all of the laws, traffic signs, signals, and lane markings, you can’t guarantee that other motorists will do the same. Don’t leave your safety in their hands, pay attention to everything going around you, and be prepared to react at any given time. Look on both sides of the road before taking a turn. When turning left or right always look behind and give a hand signal.

How to maximize your visibility on a Bicycle

Always try to wear bright color clothes. When a motorist can see you, they’re less likely to hit you.
Try to wear reflective clothing at night.
Reflective garments, including reflectors, are fitted to the back of your shoes.
Strapping on your helmet before a ride.

Stay Alert

Riding a bicycle demands the same level of attention as driving a car. It’s important to pay attention to your surroundings, listen to the sounds of nearby vehicles, and keep both hands free in case you have to suddenly use both breaks. So distractions like music and texting can be dangerous. Always keep an eye out for obstacles in your path, watch out for pedestrians, and open vehicle doors. Equipping your bicycle with a rear-view mirror, horn or bell, and a bright headlight is highly recommended.

Pre-Check before ride

Be prepared for your ride, not only you but your bicycle too. Check all the parts of the bicycle to ensure the bicycle is in good working condition. Please check below for the pre-checks before the ride which will definitely help if you are aiming for long-distance rides.

Tire and wheels
Air Pressure
Gears
Brakes
Pedals
Reflective elements

Safety rules on Road for a bicycle ride.

Signal when changing lanes.
Ride on the left side when safe to do so.
Follow all signs, signals, and road markings.
Follow speed positioning, with the slowest vehicles and bicycles staying farthest to the right, and only passing on the left.
Adhere to lane positioning, riding three feet to the left of traffic when sharing lanes.

What can be avoided?

Drunken Riding
Signal jumping
Riding without a helmet
Overspeeding

These are a few simple tips that can be followed to avoid road accidents. By following these safety tips and practices, you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident while cycling. Always ensure you are familiar with cycling safety tips before riding a bicycle and always wear a helmet to reduce the risk of serious injury.

Sanrocycles provide bicycles for rent in Pune and PCMC. Bicycle on Rent is also available in Wakad, Hinjewadi, Aundh, Kharadi, and many more places. Found yourself with a spare hour? Grab a Bicycle and explore. If you have a cycle it is ok, if not don’t worry. You can hire a Bicycle Rent in Pune or Pimpri-Chinchwad areas and start cycling. You can also book a bicycle online and Rent a bicycle. There is also an online bicycle store from which you can book a bicycle at a reasonable price.