Many residents in Connecticut ride their bicycles to work, for exercise, or simply for fun. When riding on public roadways, cyclists must follow the state traffic laws, just like car and truck drivers.
Unfortunately, bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles often occur. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), a total of 843 cyclists were killed in crashes with vehicles in 2019, which is a three-percent increase compared to 2018.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that most fatal bicycle accidents occur in urban areas and at non-intersection. Although most bicycle deaths were those ages 20 and older, minors and teenagers have the highest rates of nonfatal bicycle-related injuries, resulting in over one-third of all emergency room visits in the U.S. due to bicycle-related injuries.
Since cyclists are not as protected compared to drivers, a collision often leads to cyclists suffering serious and catastrophic injuries. It is imperative for riders to take some safety precautions to avoid being involved in a devastating accident.
The following are several bicycle safety tips:
Wear a helmet – Adults and children should all wear helmets every time they ride their bicycles. Ensure the helmet is properly adjusted to fit snugly and meet the safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Check and maintain your equipment – Before riding your bike, make sure you always inspect it. The seat must be adjusted to the proper height and locked in place. Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Look for and tighten any loose bolts and components.
Be visible – During the day, where brightly-colored clothing like neon or other fluorescent colors. At night, wear reflective gear and use flashing lights to catch the eyes of motorists.
Adhere to the rules of the road – Know and follow the traffic laws. Ride in the direction of traffic. When riding in a group on the road, ride in a single-file line. Always use hand signals when turning. Stay alert and keep your head on a swivel to look out for potential hazards, especially at intersections and near parked vehicles.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Hartford or Stratford, CT, contact Zayas Law Firm today at (860) 854-9156 for a free consultation. Our legal team has nearly five decades of combined legal experience!