There could be a variety of possible benefits to choosing a bicycle as a primary means of transportation. If you choose to travel Texas roads via bicycle, it is possible that you may consider the health benefits involved and the bonuses of skipping out of fuel costs and vehicle maintenance expenses invaluable.
However, there is another side to this coin as there may also be a variety of potential risks involved with riding a bicycle near traffic. With less in the way of protective barriers to shield you from harm as a cyclist, knowing the hazards you may encounter could play an integral role in staying safe.
Knowing the risks
Part of knowing the risks you may face as a cyclist could involve understanding the most common causes of bicycle-related collisions. Some tips to help you prepare to stay safe as you navigate the open road could include:
- Distracted drivers: Drivers who succumb to distraction may struggle to maintain proper lane control and if a vehicle suddenly shifts into your path, reacting quickly enough to avoid collision could be nearly impossible.
- Right of way: Even if you have the right of way, simply assuming a driver will stop and allow you to cross at an intersection might not be advisable, as the results could be devastating should a driver fail to yield.
- Rider visibility: Since you are inherently more difficult to spot out on the road as a cyclist, it may be essential to find ways to increase your visibility, such as equipping your bike with reflectors and wearing bright clothing.
- Obstacles: Any obstacles that obscure vision or passage can be a threat to your safety and steering clear of such objects could prove imperative.
Even if you take every possible measure to stay safe while riding near traffic, should you encounter a negligent driver, there may be little you can do to escape to safety.
When a collision occurs
If the negligent actions of a driver cause a bicycle-related collision to occur, there is a chance you could suffer severe or even life-altering injuries in the process. Following the crash, you could choose to consult with someone with experience in such matters for advice on all your available options for legal recourse. Such guidance may help you better prepare to pursue the full amount of restitution you deserve through a personal injury claim and help shift your focus toward entering the recovery period with peace of mind.