A bicyclist is left dead after they were involved in an accident on St. Claude Avenue In New Orleans on February 26, 2014. The accident is currently being investigated by police and is said to have happened around 10 p.m. on the westbound side of the road, near the corner of St. Claude Avenue and Pauline Street, according to police.

They say that the 50-year-old cyclist was hit by a Honda Civic while crossing into the car’s lane of travel, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 26-year-old driver of the Honda Civic was not injured and no charges were filed. No other information was released in relation to the accident.

With the beautiful weather that we are handed here in the south, riding a bike is a healthy and fun way to get around. However, especially in the summertime when more bike-riders are out and about, it’s important to be extra cautious while riding a bike – or near one.

Let’s discuss a few ways to avoid finding yourself in a similar accident when riding a bicycle. You already know the basics like wearing safety gear, following the law, and such, but how else can a bike-rider prevent being hit?

Shine. If you must ride at night, get a headlight. Most areas require it by law, and it can only do you good. Adding a backlight is also a wise choice.
Ride with traffic Believe it or not, cars are less likely to expect you coming from the opposite direction, and you risk being noticed too late.
Avoid blind spots. A lot of the same safety rules apply to bicycles as cars – especially this one.
Mirrors. A small mirror for your handlebars or helmet (or both) may sound silly, but could save your life be allowing you an extended vision.
Avoid traffic. When you can, choose roads that tend to have less vehicle traffic on them.

Most of these tips have a common theme: BE SEEN. Keep yourself as visible as possible. Reflective tape or accessories and bright clothing can help, even in the daytime. About one out of every forty crashes involve a bicycle, so anything to decrease your odds of being another victim is worth it.

For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185

In cities where biking is commonly enjoyed, such as Lake Charles, Lafayette and Alexandria, Attorney Morris Bart or a trusted auto accident attorney from his firm is able to help anyone who has been hit by a vehicle while riding a bicycle. Mobile, Alabama is another city that is not too far and has a lot of bike riders. An auto accident lawyer from our team can assist you with seeking compensation for what you’ve been put through.

Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.