More and more people are taking to the roadway on a bicycle to get more exercise, cut down on their carbon footprint, reduce the amount they use their car, or just to get some fresh air on the way to work.
If you decide to ride your bicycle you should be aware of the following 5 tips provided by a los angeles personal injury attorney to reduce your chance of being in an accident.
1. Use hand signals to tell motorists and pedestrians what you are going to do.
2. Always make eye contact with drivers. It’s best to assume that drivers don’t see you until you make sure that they do.
3. Watch out for roadway hazards such as grates, gravel, ice or debris. It’s always safe to cross railroad tracks at right angles.
4. If it’s overcast or dark, use lights. Washington law requires bicyclists to use a white headlight visible from at least 500 feet ahead as well as a rear reflector visible from up to 300 feet from behind.
5. Maintain your bike well. Check your bike’s brakes and tires regularly.