Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Simple Safety Tips for Los Angeles Cyclists

Los Angeles Cyclist | Personal injury Lawyer
 Image Source: http://la.streetsblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/11_2_09_times_bike.jpg

Using bicycle as a means of transportation provides notable health benefits. However, despite its advantages, there are still imminent dangers in cycling, especially on busy highways. 

According to statistics, at least 43,000 bicyclists were injured and 698 were killed due to bike accidents in 2007. During the same year, a total of 109 California cyclists were involved in fatal traffic accidents.

The following are other alarming data on bicycle accidents:   
  • •    The average age of bikers killed in road accidents in 2007 was 40
  • •    Males are more likely to get involved in bike accidents compared to female bikers
  • •    15 percent of those killed due to bicycle accidents in 2007 were under the age of 16
  • •    At least 28 percent of those injured bikers in 2007 were aged under 16-years-old
  • •    The average age of cyclists injured in bike accidents was 30

Bicyclists are commonly at risk of getting involved in accidents due to road hazards. Because of relatively thin and unsteady body frame of bicycles, sudden changes in the road surface can instantly result in abrupt accident. The common road hazards that post threat to cyclists include potholes, sewer grates, and railroad tracks.

Another problem bikers face while on road is the intersections. At intersections, motorists tend to overlook or ignore the presence of cyclists. So here are some helpful tips for bikers to avoid getting involved in an accident at intersections:

Increase visibility – Bikers are urged to wear bright-colored clothing and to install front and rear lamps on their bikes to get easily get noticed by other road users.

Stay on bike lane – In states like California, there are designated roadways for bikers. Cyclists should avoid using lanes specified for motor vehicles

Ride defensively – Bikers should always take notice of road hazards and motor vehicles while cycling to anticipate any accident and to do necessary preemptive measures

In case you got involved in a bicycle accident due to the negligence of a motorist, you have the right to claim for monetary compensations. However, asserting for compensation claims are usually complicated, which is why it is advisable that you consult with a Los Angeles accident attorney to learn the correct legal procedures to follow.

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