Lane departure warnings, blind spot detection, backup cameras, and other technologies are helping drivers avoid accidents with bicyclists. Unfortunately, all it takes is one negligent motorist to cause a tragedy.

In 2014, more than 700 cyclists in the United States died in crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition to the emotional hardship, many of these victims’ families faced financial ruin due to health-care bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.

If you ride a bicycle, these six tips may help you avoid becoming a statistic:

Ride with traffic;
Obey traffic laws;
Yield to other vehicles;
Ride predictably;
Stay alert;
And be cautious when riding near parked vehicles.

If you were injured in a bicycle crash in Mississippi, contact Morris Bart, LTD. A Gulfport injury attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, structure your claim, and help you pursue the maximum compensation.

Here are six tips that could save your life when riding a bicycle:

Ride with Traffic

As PedBikeInfo.org explains, cyclists should always ride with traffic. Getting hit from behind is less likely than getting hit from the front. You also will be more visible and predictable to motorists – particularly when you reach driveways and intersections.

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Obey Traffic Laws

You don’t need a driver’s license to ride a bicycle, but you still have to follow traffic laws. Ignoring traffic signs, stop lights, and other laws not only can lead to a citation but also may cause a collision.

Yield to Other Vehicles

As the NHTSA explains, drivers on smaller roads usually have to yield to vehicles on larger roads. If there is no sign to indicate who has the right of way, then slow down and proceed with caution when the intersection is clear.

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Ride Predictably

Ride in a straight line at all times. Do not weave between vehicles. If you turn or change lanes, use hand signals to notify other drivers. You can learn about hand signals here.

Stay Alert

Do not ride if you feel tired or after drinking alcohol. According to the NHTSA, 24 percent of pedal-cyclist traffic fatalities in 2014 had a BAC of 0.01g/dL or greater.

Be Cautious When Riding Near Parked Vehicles

Bicycle accidents are often associated with alcohol use, distractions, and poor weather, but a vehicle does not have to be in motion to injure a rider. Many of these accidents happen when bikers hit the doors of parked cars as people exit.

If you were in a bicycle or pedestrian crash that a negligent driver caused, contact a personal injury lawyer in Gulfport, MS from Morris Bart, LTD. We will gather evidence, structure your claim, and fight for the maximum settlement on your behalf.

If your case goes to trial, our personal-injury attorneys have the knowledge and resources to represent your interests in court. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.

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