How to reduce the risk of bicycle accidents in Austin?

At Abogado Dang – Accident Lawyers, we understand that cyclist safety is a growing concern in Austin. As the city promotes cycling as a sustainable and healthy alternative to transportation, it is critical that both cyclists and drivers are aware of and follow proper safety practices.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how cyclists can protect themselves on the road, from choosing the right bike to respecting traffic laws, in order to reduce the risk of accidents and serious injuries. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, do not hesitate to call us and schedule your free consultation.

About bicycle accidents

Bicycle accidents in Austin have been a growing problem, reflecting a worrying trend in the city’s road safety. As more people embrace cycling as a means of transportation or recreation, there has been a significant increase in traffic incidents involving cyclists. Speaking of bicycle accident statistics, the Texas Department of Transportation reports the following:

• Cyclist fatalities resulting from traffic crashes increased by 28% from 2018 to 2022.
• In 2022 alone, there were 2,349 traffic crashes involving bicyclists in Texas, resulting in 92 deaths and 333 serious injuries.
• The main factors contributing to these crashes were driver inattention , failure to yield the right of way, and speeding.

Why do they happen?

Some of the causes of bicycle accidents caused during traffic, or due to a reckless driver are:

• Driver inattention: Many accidents occur because drivers are not attentive to their surroundings and do not detect cyclists in time.
• Speeding: Driving at high speeds reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents when they occur.
• Visibility Conditions: Poor visibility due to darkness, weather, or lack of adequate lighting on bicycles and roads can lead to collisions.
• Alcohol and drugs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, both by drivers and cyclists, can reduce the ability to react and judge, causing accidents.

What injuries do they cause?

Accidents can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to very serious. Bicycle accident injuries include bruises and abrasions, fractures , head injuries including concussions and head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Internal injuries, such as organ damage, can also occur in more severe collisions. In addition, these accidents can result in serious limb injuries, including amputations in extreme cases.

The basics of bicycle safety

Keep in mind the following basic factors to ensure a safe bike ride on the streets of Austin:

• Proper fit

Making sure your bike is the right size is crucial. A well-fitted bike provides better control and greater comfort when riding. Adjust the seat height so that your feet can touch the ground when you stop. The handlebars should be at a level that allows you to ride without overreaching or having to hunch your body. A proper fit helps prevent accidents by providing stability for riders. It’s easier to maneuver and react quickly when everything is adjusted to your body size.

• Stay visible

Visibility on the road is key to safety. Bright clothing makes cyclists stand out during the day, while lights are essential at night or in dimly lit areas. Always use white front and red rear lights on your bike. Reflective tape on bikes and equipment also increases visibility for drivers, especially at turns, where risks are greatest. Being visible helps avoid collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.

• Traffic rules

Cyclists must follow traffic laws similar to those of automobiles for the safety of everyone. Learn the right-of-way rules and practice turning signals before heading out onto busy streets. This knowledge significantly reduces risks. Being predictable with your actions allows others to anticipate your moves, making the roads safer for all users – cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.

• Importance of the helmet

Wearing a helmet could save your life – it’s that important! Choose one that meets current safety standards for maximum protection. Your helmet should fit your head firmly but comfortably – it shouldn’t move back and forth or back and always fasten it properly before every ride. Replace helmets every five years or immediately after any accident, even if there is no visible damage, as their protective ability diminishes over time or after an impact.

• Bicycle safety checks

Regular checkups keep bikes in top condition, which prevents breakdowns during riding, a common cause of accidents. Making sure brakes work perfectly every time, tires have enough air pressure, and chains are properly lubricated all contribute to safe rides.

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Factors for preventing bicycle accidents

Here are some rules you should adhere to to increase your safety when riding a bike:

• Obey the signs

Bike safety starts with obeying traffic signals. Cyclists must stop at red lights and stop signs. This respects the right-of-way rules shared with drivers. Before you head out, do a quick check of your bike’s tires, chain, and brakes.

Extra: Tips to avoid bicycle accidents

• Do not use handheld devices while cycling

You’ve probably heard of distracted driving, but you may not know about distracted cycling. If you’re not concentrating on the road or path, you could accidentally drive into oncoming traffic, which could lead to an accident. Put away all electronic devices while cycling so you can be aware of your surroundings. That way, you’ll be able to react if a car invades your space.

• Don’t use headphones

You may like to listen to music while you cycle, but that can be dangerous. If you wear headphones or earphones, you won’t be able to hear your surroundings. That means a car could drive up to you without you even realizing it. Staying safe is much more important than listening to music, so don’t wear your headphones when riding your bike.

• Use headlights

Always use headlights when riding at night. First, headlights will allow you to see the road and your surroundings. Also, headlights will make it easier for drivers to see you. This way, they can slow down or change lanes to give you room while you are riding.

• Keep both hands on the handlebars

Keeping both hands on the handlebars will also help you maintain control. You can take one hand off when you signal, but otherwise make sure both hands are on the handlebars. That way, if you hit a bump in the road, you’ll be able to keep a steady grip on the handlebars and control the bike.

Contacting a bicycle accident lawyer can be your best ally in the event of an accident. Do not hesitate to protect your rights with us.

Attorney Dang – Accident Lawyers, experts in the defense of accident victims

At Abogado Dang – Accident Lawyers we are committed to the safety of all road users, including bicyclists. By following the recommendations outlined in this article, bicyclists can enjoy a safer and more conscious ride on the streets of Austin.

Avoid bicycle accidents, ride safely. However, despite all existing precautions, accidents happen. If you have suffered injuries due to bicycle accidents, you have rights. At Abogado Dang – Accident Lawyers we are experts in defending accident victims and obtaining the compensation and justice they deserve, regardless of their immigration status. Call us today, schedule your free consultation in Spanish and give a BANG! to the insurance companies.

If you liked this article, you may also be interested in:

• 5 Reasons to Hire an Austin Car Accident Lawyer
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Information verified by lawyer Loc Dang

Loc Dang is a founder and member of our legal team. In this blog, Attorney Dang shares his expertise to guide accident victims.