Bicycling Safety and Preventative Measures in McKinney

Because of the discrepancy in size, weight, and speed between a standard car and a bicycle and because a cyclist is exposed, there is an increased likelihood that a bicycle accident could result in serious injuries. Fortunately, there are several bicycling safety and preventative measures in McKinney that could help protect you and your loved ones.

If you do end up injured in a bicycle accident, though, you may be entitled to compensation for all your injuries. If you have suffered an injury after following all appropriate safety measures, consider contacting a knowledgeable bike crash lawyer about your legal options.

Common Hazards

Bicycles are considered vehicles under Texas Transportation Code §§541.201(23) and 551.101. Under these statutes, a bicycle rider has all the same rights as any other motorist on the road, as well as all the same duties to protect other people on the road from avoidable harm.

One of the most important bicycling safety and preventative measures in McKinney is to understand some of the common hazards on the road. These include but are not limited to:

• Potholes and poor road conditions
• Opened car doors
• Inattentive motorists
• Poor weather conditions

These hazards are not exclusive to bicycle riders, but because the average bicycle rider has less visibility and protection while on the road, the risks these problems present are therefore compounded.

Following the Rules of the Road

Under Tex. Transp. Code §551.103, bicycle riders should generally ride on the right side of the road and as near as practicable to the right-hand curb. In addition, it is important to follow the flow of traffic and ride on the right side of the road whenever possible.

Because bicyclists have the same rights and duties as other motorists, it is important to abide by the same traffic laws. Ultimately, the traffic laws are implemented to keep people safe, so bicyclists should make every effort to abide by the traffic laws including stopping at red lights and stop signs, yielding for vehicles, and riding in the same direction as traffic.

Using Signals & Wearing a Helmet

Bicyclists should use hand and arm signals when they are turning. Because bicycles are less visible than other vehicles, it is important that a bicyclist signal to other motorists that they intend to turn.

There is currently no statewide law in Texas that requires cyclists to wear a helmet. However, helmets have been unequivocally shown to help reduce and prevent serious head injuries. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of sustaining a head injury by as much as eighty-five percent.

Proper Bicycle Equipment & Biking Under the Influence

Another way to ensure safety while riding a bicycle in McKinney is to ensure that bicycle is equipped with the right components and all parts are in working order, especially the brakes. In addition, Tex. Transp. Code §551.104(b) requires that bicycles be equipped with a white light on the front and a red reflector on the back to ensure it is visible to other motorists.

Bicycle riders should avoid riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances. While the state’s DUI laws are written to apply to motor vehicles, it is important to recognize that sharing the road with motorists while under the influence can pose a serious safety risk.

Call now to Learn More About Bicycling Safety and Preventative Measures in McKinney

While it is important that riders understand bicycling safety and preventative measures in McKinney, know that you have rights under the law. A bicycle accident lawyer could be prepared to help protect your rights and build a strong case for compensation if someone else’s negligence causes you to suffer injury.

By conducting a thorough review of an accident and collecting evidence, a bicycle accident attorney can help pursue negligent motorists for compensation. Call today to schedule a consultation and get started preparing your case.