Florida leads the nation both in terms of bicycles and fatal accidents involving bicyclists.  It is only second after California in terms of people who commute using bikes.  But, if we look at the number of bicycle crashes and deaths caused in these accidents, then a completely different picture emerges.

Florida has 6 bicyclists’ deaths per 1 million residents, which is almost double the rate for California, New York, and Illinois.  A large number of bicycle-related accidents can be easily avoided by following some essential bicycle safety tips.

Often a bicycle crash may be unintentionally caused by a motorist or pedestrian.  So, here are our bicycle safety tips for drivers, pedestrians, teenage bicyclists, and parents, which will help you in avoiding a bicycle crash.

Bicycle Safety Tips for Motorists

• Motorists must avoid using high beam headlights if they see a bicyclist approaching.
• They must check for any bicyclist approaching from behind, before opening a car door.
• By law, drivers are required to give bicyclists a minimum of three feet clearance while driving alongside or passing them regardless of whether or not a bicycle lane is present.
• Drivers need to pay special attention to bicyclists in the bike lane while making a turn and must yield to them and make the turn behind the bicyclist.

Bicycle Safety for Parents and Children

• Florida law stipulated that all bicycle riders under the age of 16 years, must wear a helmet. So, wear a properly fitted helmet while cycling.
• Wear appropriate shoes and other protective gear to minimize any damage in case of a crash.
• Make sure that the bike and all the equipment such as brakes, tires, and gears, etc. are in good condition before you embark on a journey.
• Never wear headphones or listen to music while on a bike as this may make you unaware of your surroundings and is often cited as one of the common reasons for bicycle crashes.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic, and obey all traffic laws, including signs, signals, and lane markings.

Pedestrian Safety for Parents and Children

• Pedestrians must always cross the road where they are generally expected, such as at corners or in crosswalks.
• Always try to walk on the sidewalk if there is one. In case no sidewalk is available, then walk against the direction of traffic as this will allow you to see upcoming vehicles.
• Follow all traffic laws, along with signs and signals for pedestrians.
• Pedestrians can also refer to the Florida Driver License Handbook for more tips on bicyclist and pedestrian safety.
• Always try to be vigilant and wear bright clothes, and shoes which will make you visible to bicyclists and drivers.

Conclusion

You can significantly reduce your chances of getting hurt by following these bicycle safety tips.  In case you get injured in a bicycle accident, then contact us for a free consultation as our attorneys have vast experience of bicycle accident cases. Call us today at (727) 498-8771.