Spring is here, and summer’s coming soon, so it’s not surprising that people are starting to head back out on their bicycles. Ohio’s weather can be unpredictable, so on warm, sunny days, it’s common to see an unusual number of people on or around the roads during the day.
No one wants to get hurt when they’re trying to exercise or go from A to Z. Fortunately, you can avoid crashes fairly easily. To avoid cycling crashes, there are a few things you can do.
1. Ride where people expect to see you
The first tip is to ride in locations where you are expected. For instance, most drivers know that cyclists will cross the road in bike lanes or on towpaths. Most drivers expect to see cyclists in bike lanes while they’re traveling, too. Try to ride in safe positions where drivers know they’ll see you.
2. Bring a horn and lights
Several companies make lights and horns that you can add to your bicycle to make it stand out. If you notice a driver ahead of you, you can honk the horn to let them know you’re coming their way. The light, used in the day or night, also draws attention.
3. Brighten up your look
Finally, make sure you do what you can to stand out. Wear bright colors, reflectors and helmets that make it easier to see you. Doing this greatly reduces your risk of getting into a crash.
These are a few tips to help you avoid an injury while riding your bike. If you are hurt, remember that the driver who struck you can be held responsible if they violated traffic laws.
