Summer Safety Tips for Bicyclists and Motorists
May is National Bicycle Safety Month. Here are some great reminders for both cyclists and drivers of how to stay safe on the roads. As the weather continues to get nicer in Wisconsin many people, families, and kids will be out riding their bikes on sidewalks, trails, and the shoulders of the road.
Cyclist deaths are highest from the months of June to September according to AAA. In a press release AAA mentions that “According to the latest figures from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), 1,105 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2022 – that’s up almost 18% from 2020. Bicyclist deaths most often occur between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and usually in urban areas. Failing to yield the right of way is the highest factor in fatal bike crashes, followed by bicyclists not being visible.”
Bicyclists and motorists can both benefit from reviewing the following safety tips and sharing the road.
Tips for Bicyclists:
- Follow the same rules of the road as other roadway users, including riding in the same direction as traffic and following all the same traffic signs and signals. Signal all turns.
- Wear a bicycle helmet every time and on every ride.
- Be visible by wearing bright colors during the day, reflective gear in low light conditions, and use lights at night.
- Remember that respect is a two-way street. Show motorists the same courtesy that you expect from them.
Tips for Drivers:
- Stay alert—avoid all distractions while driving.
- Yield to bicyclists when turning.
- Make a visual check for bicyclists by scanning mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic.
- Slow down and give at least 3 feet of clearance when passing.
- Never honk your horn at a bicyclist—it could cause them to swerve into traffic or go off the roadway and crash.
Should you or a family member be in an accident which injuries are sustained, the first thing you should do is contact a personal injury attorney. When you are represented by a skilled attorney, you’ll have your best chance of being fairly compensated for any injuries that you sustain in an accident.
Call Jacobson, Schrinsky & Houck in Milwaukee today at (414) 223-4444 or contact us online to have one of our caring lawyers come out to meet you and get car accident help today and money for your injuries. There is no fee until we win.
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