Riding your bike is one of the simplest pleasures in life, but you need to prioritize safety with so many negligent drivers on the road. Following a few simple tips and tricks can help you avoid serious accidents and injuries in Southern California. While some accidents are unavoidable, there are many steps you can take to stay safe, be wary of hazards, and protect your body. These tips apply to serious cyclists who achieve high speeds as well as amateur cyclists who prefer leisurely bike trips with family and friends at a slower pace.

Unfortunately, even the most safety-conscious cyclists are still at risk for injury in Southern California. Regardless of how many steps you take to protect yourself, there is always the chance that a negligent driver could cause an accident. If you find yourself in this situation, it is best to get in touch with a qualified bike accident lawyer in Southern California.

Wear Your Helmet

 Perhaps the simplest way to protect yourself during a bike ride is to wear your helmet. While a bike helmet might not be the most fashion-forward choice, it can help protect you against a range of head injuries. These include:

  • Concussions
  • TBIs
  • Penetrating skull injuries
  • Brain damage
  • Hematomas
  • Brain Bleeds

Remember, brain injuries can cause issues that stay with you for the rest of your life. These include not only physical issues such as lack of balance and vision problems but also psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, and even suicidal ideations.

With all that said, there is some debate over the true efficacy of a bike helmet. One of the most frequently-repeated statistics is that bike helmets can prevent 85% of head injuries, although this stems from a study in the 1980s that has been largely discredited. A more accurate number is probably closer to 50%. Even then, many bike helmets are completely defective, failing to adhere to safety standards and being recalled by federal authorities constantly. 

Stick to Bike Lanes

Another easy way to improve safety during your next bike trip is to stick to bike lanes. These special lanes are in place for a reason, and you might as well take full advantage of them. Some bike lanes offer additional protection from passing vehicles in the form of barriers. Others may only provide designated areas for cyclists. If a vehicle strays into a bike lane and hits you, this is a traffic violation and an act of negligence, which makes them liable for any injuries they may cause you. If possible, you should plan out your bike trips online with digital tools that help you travel only on roads that feature bike lanes.

 Remember Your Hand Signals

While some bikes have indicators, most cyclists rely solely on hand signals. If a vehicle does not know which way you are planning to turn, it is much more difficult for them to avoid colliding with you. Take a moment to review the hand signals in your area and practice your hand signals before taking to the road. It could save your life.

 Install Proper Lights and Reflective Gear

Cyclists should install lights and reflective gear onto their bikes. These safety features can be especially helpful during low-light bike rides. In the middle of the night, it is almost impossible to spot a cyclist wearing dark clothing on a bike with no lights. Even if you have lights installed, you might forget to activate them. This is especially common if you begin cycling in the late afternoon and the sun sets during your time on the road.

Check Your Bike for Issues

Last but not least, it makes sense to check your bike for mechanical issues on an almost constant basis. Pay especially close attention to your brakes and make sure they are fully functional before taking to the road. Even a slight issue can cause distractions. In a worst-case scenario, your brakes will fail and leave you with no ability to avoid a collision.

Where Can I Find an Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Southern California?

If you have been injured in a Southern California bike accident, you should get in touch with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. With help from Miracle Law, APC, you can approach this situation with a measure of confidence and efficiency. Miracle Law can help you pursue the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and any other damages you might have incurred as a result of your bike accident. We know that negligent drivers cause bike accidents all the time in Southern California. With our assistance, you can hold these negligent drivers accountable. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan.