, 726 bicyclists were killed and another 49,000 were injured in America in 2012. As summer approaches and thousands of Michigander’s young and old pull their bikes out of storage, now is the time to remember the tips to keep you safe. Don’t be a statistic, be safe when you bike.
Tips for Bicyclists – While it is important for motorists to watch for bicyclists, it is up to you as a bicyclist to do your part to be safe as well. Remember the following tips when you get on your bike this summer and be safe.
- Wear a helmet at all times when you are riding. Helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88%. Even if you are only riding a short distance, a helmet can mean the difference between life and death in an accident.
- Know and use hand signals when you ride to keep drivers around you informed as to your direction.
- Obey all traffic laws. This means stopping at stoplights and stop signs when you are on your bike.
- If you are riding at night, be sure you wear reflective clothing and that your bike has lights.
- Teach your children the rules and supervise them at all times.
Tips for Drivers – It is not just bicyclists that need to be careful but drivers as well. While many accidents occur from careless bikers, many others result from drivers who may be distracted. If you are a driver, remember summer roadways in Michigan include bikes. Be aware of your surroundings and do your part to keep bicyclists safe by following these tips.
- Always pay special attention at intersections as this is where many accidents occur.
- Understand hand gestures used by bicyclists.
- Keep your distance from bicycles on the road in front of you.
- Never be distracted while you drive.
Don’t limit bike safety to one month of the year, pledge to follow the rules no matter when you ride. NHTSA offers parents and children the opportunity to be safe and follow the rules together with the Be a Role Model Campaign. To learn more about this fun way to help your children be safer, visit their NHTSA Website here.
APKH&C is a personal injury lawyer in Gaylord Michigan. Serving all of upper Michigan including the Upper Peninsula, we have been providing a service to our clients and our community for over 35 years. If you have questions about personal injury law or are looking for a personal injury attorney in Northern Michigan, contact APKH&C today at 1.877.732.2491.