Northern California Accident Attorney Blog

Summer is here and for many of us, that means it is time to get the bicycle out of the house and onto the thousands of miles of roads throughout the Bay Area. Whether you enjoy short recreational bike rides on the weekends or make a long daily commute to work downtown, understanding safe cycling best practices can mean the difference between avoiding an accident or suffering a serious injury or death in a collision. As a safety advocate for cyclists and other victims of San Leandro car accidents, I aim to educate and raise awareness of what Bay Area cyclists can do to stay safe on the road at all times. The following tips can help you reduce your risk of injury or being involved in a collision.

Never Ride Without a Helmet

Statistically, properly-fitted bicycle helmets can reduce head injuries by 85%. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) both recommend that cyclists always wear a helmet while riding a bicycle. It is important to note, however, that simply wearing a helmet does not do anything to prevent an accident. As a cyclist, you have a duty to obey traffic laws and always pay attention to your surroundings.

Be Alert and Focused at All Times

Never listen to headphones or talk on a cell phone while cycling. You should be focused on the road in front of you and the other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians you share the road with. Ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as other vehicles. Keep your eyes open for potholes, cracks, drainage rates, road kill, or anything that could make you lose control of your bike. Cross railroad tracks at a 90-degree angle and be especially careful on bridges. Remember - 70% of car vs. bicycle collisions occur at driveways or intersections. Before you cross a street or intersection, look for traffic. Always look left, right, and left again.

Stay Out of the Door Zone

Dozens of cyclists have been seriously injured or killed as a result of running into opening car doors by a driver or passenger getting out of a parked car. You can reduce your risk of being involved in a "door zone" accident by riding far enough to the left so that you cannot be struck by an opening door. Statistically, you're more likely to be struck by an opening door on a parked car than to be struck from behind by a car whose driver can clearly see you.

Keep Your Bicycle Properly Maintained

Your bicycle requires maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. Maintenance is essential not just to keep your bike in good shape, but to keep you, the rider, safe. Failing to replace a damaged part could lead to an accident. How often you need to perform routine maintenance depends on how frequently you ride your bike and the conditions you ride in. Before ever ride, you should check air pressure, brakes and cables. Regularly inspect all parts of the bike for wear and damage, including the chain, frame, fork, seat rails, seat post, handlebars, crank arms, brake calipers and brake levers.