The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging parents to remember that a bike is not a toy: it is a vehicle. Even young riders need to be aware of the safety issues associated with riding a bike so they can learn how to protect themselves from serious injuries. The NHTSA offers these tips for staying safe:
- Adjust the bicycle to fit the rider, not the other way around. The seat should be level and the height of the seat should allow the rider to bend the knee slightly if his or her leg is fully extended. Adjust the handlebar height if necessary.
- Wear a helmet that has been fitted properly. Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of traumatic brain injuries.
- Always check a bicycle before riding it to make sure it is in good working order. Check the tires and test the brakes to make sure they work properly.
- Avoid riding a bike without using the handlebars. A rider should always have at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and lighting conditions in your neighborhood. Wear bright colors or reflective clothing at all times. If you ride at night, use reflective tape to increase your visibility.
- Avoid riding at night whenever possible, as other drivers have difficulty seeing cyclists in the dark.
- Watch out for potholes, uneven road surfaces, wet roads, and other road hazards when riding.
Even when bicycle riders take all of these precautions, it’s not always enough to stay out of harm’s way. Some drivers approach cyclists aggressively and try to run them off the road. Others are distracted and do not see cyclists until it’s too late. If you sustained injuries while you were cycling in Northern California, it may be possible to recover compensation from the person who caused the accident. The San Jose bicycle accident lawyers at Van Der Walde & Associates will review your case and help you determine the best course of action. Call us at (877) 862-6288 for a free consultation.
