Riding a bicycle is a great way to save money, get some exercise, reduce your environmental impact, and see all of the natural wonders Hawaii has to offer.
Whether you ride your bike to commute or just for fun, it’s essential to stay safe. That’s because you share the road with cars, trucks, and other vehicles that could cause severe harm if you’re involved in a collision while biking.
Recovery Law Center compiled 10 safety tips every bicyclist in Hawaii should follow:
- Wear a helmet every time you ride. Even if you’re careful to follow all the rules of the road for cyclists, you never know when another cyclist or a careless driver might strike you. If you aren’t wearing a helmet and are in a crash, you run the risk of a severe or fatal traumatic brain injury.
- Follow Hawaii’s bike laws. Bicycles are considered vehicles like cars, which means you need to follow the same traffic rules as other drivers. That said, motorists must also abide by these rules and give bicyclists extra space when passing.
- Always follow the correct flow of traffic when riding your bike. Riding into facing traffic is against the law. It’s also much more dangerous than riding alongside traffic. Rear-end or side-impact collisions with motor vehicles can be hazardous for bicyclists, but head-on collisions are even more deadly.
- Make sure to stop at the end of your driveway and intersections. Many bicycle accidents happen due to a failure to stop and look for cars before crossing. Make sure to confirm that an oncoming driver sees you before proceeding into a street.
- Be predictable. Avoid making maneuvers that might startle or surprise a driver, such as swerving between vehicles. Being predictable makes it easier for others around you to anticipate what you’re doing and act accordingly, decreasing the chance of an accident.
- Check that the road is clear before making left turns. Look behind you to minimize your chance of being hit by a careless or inattentive driver.
- Increase your visibility. Wear bright-colored clothing, make sure your bike has reflectors, and use a front light when riding at night. You may also want to wear reflective clothing when riding at night.
- Avoid using headphones or talking on the phone while riding. Distracted biking can be a reckless decision, limiting your ability to respond effectively if an emergency arises.
- Give extra space to parked cars. Riding too close to a parked vehicle makes you vulnerable to a “dooring accident” if someone suddenly opens their door without checking traffic first.
- Make sure your bike is in good working order. Check that the tires are properly inflated, your lights and reflectors are working, the brakes aren’t too worn, and your seat and handlebars are tight.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Contact Recovery Law Center Today
At Recovery Law Center, our Hawaii bicycle accident lawyers understand how a bike accident can devastate your life. If you were hurt while riding, compensation may be possible to help you get back on your feet again. We’re here to help.
There’s nothing to lose and everything to gain by scheduling a free consultation. Call or contact us now.
