It’s important to avoid bicycle accidents in Florida. Biking can be an excellent way to stay fit and get around, but it can also be risky when sharing the road with cars. According to the National Safety Council, there were over a thousand bicycle deaths in 2019, with motor vehicle accidents causing most of them. Thankfully, both cyclists and motorists can take steps to reduce the number of bicycle accidents. Here are some useful tips from Alex Litowsky, Esq. to avoid bicycle accidents in Florida:
Tips for Motorists to Avoid Bicycle Accidents:
- Respect speed limits. By following the posted speed limits, you can prevent hitting a cyclist and stay in control of your vehicle. Adjust your speed accordingly when the road conditions require it.
- Yield to cyclists. Cyclists are road users, too. Give them space and don’t underestimate their speed.
- Stay focused on driving. Never tailgate a cyclist or honk your horn unless it’s an emergency. These actions can startle and endanger cyclists.
- Check for cyclists. Always check for cyclists when reversing out of parking spaces or entering the road.
Tips for cyclist to Avoid Bicycle Accidents:
- Check your bike. Before you ride, ensure that your bike is in good working condition, including the brakes and tires. This can prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure.
- Wear reflective clothing. When cycling at night or in low-light conditions, use reflective clothing or attach reflective materials to your bike to increase your visibility to motorists.
- Ride with traffic. Cyclists should travel in the same direction as motor vehicles and keep up with the flow of traffic to prevent accidents.
- Stay focused. Avoid distractions, such as using a phone or listening to music, to stay alert and responsive on the road.
By following these safety tips, both drivers and cyclists can avoid bicycle accidents in Florida. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, contact a Fort Lauderdale attorney at Ask Alex Legal to explore your legal options. Call 954-ASK-ALEX (275-2539.) Contact Alex Litwosky, Esq. today for more information on exploring legal options after a bike accident.
Resources: https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/home-and-community/safety-topics/bicycle-deaths/