5 Ways to Prevent a Bicycle Accident 

They say that prevention is the best medicine. That statement rings true in many situations, including bicycle accidents. The jam-packed streets of New York can be hazardous to bicycle riders, meaning riders need to take extra precautions to keep themselves safe. In 2019, five New York boroughs recorded 18,510 crashes involving cyclists, with 16 reported fatalities. Here are five things you can do to prevent a bicycle accident

At Hach & Rose, LLP, we take bicycle safety seriously. Our legal team has seen first-hand how bicycle accidents impact a person’s physical and financial health. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of five ways you can prevent a bicycle accident while traversing New York’s sometimes busy and dangerous streets.

Wear a Helmet 

Helmets save lives. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), at least one-third of all non-fatal bicycle accidents involve injuries to the head. However, over 50 percent of cyclists report not always wearing a helmet when riding. Helmets are one of the only pieces of safety equipment that can help prevent a cyclist from suffering significant head injuries. Bicycles don't come with airbags, and you aren't protected by 3,000 pounds of metal and fiberglass as you would in a passenger vehicle. As a rider, all you have between you and a potential disaster is a helmet. Helmets can help cut your risk of head injury by more than half.

However, a helmet can only work effectively if you wear one that fits. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides tips on how to find a helmet that will work for you. Also, you should replace your helmet if you notice the padding deteriorating or the straps have stretched out, as these signs of wear and tear can impact how your helmet fits. You should also replace your helmet anytime in a bike accident. Cracks and damage are not always invisible to the naked eye and can compromise the integrity of your helmet.

Use Signals to Communicate 

Never assume that drivers or other bicyclists are anticipating your next move. Always use hand signals to communicate with motorists when turning or changing lanes. Don’t expect drivers to know where you are intending to go automatically. By signaling to those you share the road with, you can protect yourself from being involved in a dangerous collision.

Stay Visible 

Unfortunately, drivers do not always pay attention to their surroundings. Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable because they are more difficult to see. Even inattentive drivers tend to notice when a huge semi-truck is in their path, but smaller, non-motorized vehicles like bicycles can easily disappear in a driver's blind spots. To ensure that motorists can see you, you should wear clothing that makes you more visible to others. Opt for bright colors or consider wearing reflective clothing, especially at night. You may also want to equip your bike with reflectors and headlights. These devices can help you see the road ahead in addition to helping others see you.