While most bicyclists know the importance of wearing a helmet and following the rules of the road, there are some minor details which can help avoid accidents. Car-bicyclist accidents can cause serious brain damage, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and other personal injury. In some cases, these accidents lead to fatalities, so it is important to pay attention to the little things that can affect your safety when you ride:
1) Wear goggles, a face shield, or plastic lenses as well as your helmet. Dirt, pebbles, wind, and insects can fly into your face and eyes when you bicycle, injuring you and causing you to veer of the road. Wearing proper eye protection ensures good visibility and protects your eyes.
2) Wear the right shoes. Do not bike with flip-flops, sandals, or laced shoes that can get caught up in your bike chain. Look for flat and thin-soled shoes with good treads so that your feet will not slip off the pedals. Wear shoes that wear well, and comfortable, and will not easily fall off your feet.
3) Know your limits. If you approach a busy street or a traffic situation that exceeds your biking abilities, get off your bicycle and walk your bicycle for a little bit until you get to a safer spot. When in doubt, walk your bike. If it’s been a while since you have been on a bicycle, stay on dedicated walking and biking trails until you gain some extra experience.
4) Yield to pedestrians when you’re biking on sidewalks or trails and when you’re pulling out from a driveway. When passing pedestrians, give a signal to let the pedestrian know you’re coming. Pedestrian accidents involving bicycles are a serious problem and can cause serious injury.
5) Keep your bicycle in good condition. You are less likely to fall off your bike and get injured if your bicycle is in good repair. A bike in poor condition can put a stop to your ride suddenly, and that can cause an accident.