Riding a bike through the countryside doesn’t quite prepare you for the challenges you will face if you ever decide to bike through the concrete jungle of New York City. Driving in such a busy city can be challenging enough; riding a bike can be absolutely terrifying.
With so many cars and pedestrians, dangers abound everywhere. One wrong move can lead to a collision with a car that can cause serious injuries and even death.
Riding a bike in the city is not impossible. Many bicyclists do it every day, but it’s not easy. Bicycle safety is key. If you’re in search of ways to navigate the Big Apple on a bike and with confidence, follow these safety tips.
Riding a Bike Safely
To survive the city streets while on a bike, you need to think like a car. It’s easy to get caught up in the sights and sounds of the city, but you need to stay aware and think ahead at all times. Follow the same laws and do the same things you would do as if you were driving a car.
Don’t be afraid to take up the entire lane. This makes your bike more easily seen by others. If you’re off to the side, motorists are more likely to ignore you. Wearing bright colors and putting reflectors and lights on your bike will also help you become more apparent to motorists. If you can, avoid riding at night.
Be predictable. Ride with the flow of traffic. Don’t swerve in and out of lanes. Stay in a straight line and signal before you turn.
Watch for parked cars. Do not get too close or you could end up hitting an open door.
Common Bike Accidents
There are several ways in which a bicyclist can be involved in an accident:
- Rear-end crash. This occurs when a motorist hits a bike from behind. This typically happens when a driver doesn’t see a bike in front until it is too late.
- Right hook accident. This occurs when a bicyclist is in the bike lane and a motorist sideswipes the bicyclist while turning right.
- Hitting a car door. This occurs when a motorist is parked on the side of the road and opens a door. The bicyclist does not react in time and hits the car door.
How Bike Accidents Can Lead to Brain Injury
Of all activities, bike riding causes the most traumatic brain injuries. While wearing a helmet protects the head in the event you are ejected from the bicycle, it has some drawbacks. For example, motorists tend to drive safer around bikers who are not wearing helmets than those who are. Also, helmets tend to produce wind noise, which makes it difficult for bikers to hear cars around them.
Most brain injuries occur when a car collides with a bike. However, objects in the roadways and improperly maintained roads can also cause collisions that lead to brain injuries.
Get Legal Help from a Brooklyn Brain Injury Attorney
Bicycle accidents can lead to many serious injuries, including brain injuries. If your accident was caused by the negligence of another party, it’s important that you get the legal help you need to recover compensation for damages.
The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can help you with your case. He can build a strong case on your behalf. Schedule a consultation by calling our Brooklyn office at (718) 237-5586.
