Have you recently discovered the joy of cycling? Or are you excited to dust off your old bicycle and inject some movement and fitness into your daily routine? Whatever your circumstances, you can’t deny that cycling is a great way to keep fit, to get around and to have fun! Maybe you want to avoid sitting in a traffic jam on the way to work, or perhaps you want to up your weekly cardio sessions? Maybe you’re trying to save money on your transport costs or perhaps you want to take up a new hobby that gets you outside with the whole family?
Cycling ticks all the boxes. However, regardless of why you want to cycle, you must always keep safety in mind. Even the flattest cycle lanes in your local park or the quietest roads in your neighborhood could spell danger, especially if you don’t have much recent cycling experience.
Road accidents involving vehicles and cyclists are worryingly common and in these situations, it’s often the cyclist that comes off worst. If you want to speak to a lawyer about your cycling accident, get in touch with The Fitch Law Firm as soon as possible.
So, with this in mind here we’ll look at some simple safety tips to remember when you’re out riding your bicycle. Remember, safety first!
Ride with a buddy
If you’re a little nervous about riding your bike for the first time in a while, then consider asking a friend to tag along. It’s a great way to socialize, get fit, build on your cycling confidence and a simple yet effective way to stay safe. Two cyclists are easier to spot than just one, which means vehicles are more likely to see you and react accordingly.
Make it easier for road users to see you
Brightly colored shirts, high-visibility jackets, reflective tape, flashing lights, brightly colored trainers – the possibilities are endless. Just make sure that you’re brightly colored and easy to spot if visibility is low. If visibility is particularly bad, assess the situation and don’t cycle at all if you deem it to be dangerous.
Wear a helmet
Riding a bicycle without a helmet is incredibly dangerous. If you fall from your bike, even at a slow speed you could hit your head and cause catastrophic damage. Many cyclists who have experienced road accidents credit their survival to their cycle helmet. Invest in a high-quality helmet and wear it every time you ride.
Carry a patch kit and know how to fix a flat
Imagine being miles from home and you suddenly cycle over some jagged glass or you have a slow puncture. Nightmare! If you know how to repair a puncture, then you’ll be able to handle it yourself and get home again. So, give yourself the skills and carry a patch kit in your cycle bag.
And finally, take cycle lanes where you can
If you’re considering cycling to work or just wanting to get in a bit of exercise to get your heart rate up then plan your route first. And try to find routes that have dedicated cycle lanes. These lanes keep you safer and make you easier to spot.
