In 2015 alone, there were 818 fatalities and an estimated 45,000 cyclists injured in motor vehicle accidents, according to data from the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). Not only is it the responsibility of all drivers to operate their vehicles in the safest possible manner and be mindful of the traffic around them, including bicycles, but it is also up to cyclists to ride safely and responsibly. There are many bicycle safety and preventive measures in Broomfield that cyclists can take to increase their own level of protection and ensure that they’re doing everything possible to keep themselves safe while riding. If you or a loved one does get injured, our
bicycle accident attorneys can help.
Wear Your Helmet
First and foremost, when it comes to safe cycling and preventing accidents in Broomfield, a helmet is a must. Helmets can only protect you if they are worn, though, so it’s up to the cyclists to develop the habit of putting on their helmets each and every time they get on their bikes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates that helmet use reduces the likelihood of head injury by 50 percent, and estimates a reduction in face, head, or neck injury by 33 percent. Bicyclists should choose a Consumer Product Safety Commission-certified bicycle helmet to ensure that the required safety standards have been met for that particular helmet. No one ever plans to be in an accident, but if one happens to you, you’ll be much less likely to sustain a serious head injury if you’re wearing a properly fitting helmet.
Why Should You Check Your Bike Each Season?
As bikes make their way out of storage after the winter months, it is a good idea to perform a tune-up and safety check before riding around Broomfield. During the riding season, regular maintenance will improve the performance of your bike. Bikes should be thoroughly cleaned and inspected for both normal wear and tear, as well as any potential repairs that might be necessary. A bike tune-up should include:
- Testing the brakes and inspecting the brake pads for excessive wear
- Checking the tires for wear along the treads, or cracks along the sides
- Looking at the rims for nicks, dents, or warping
- Inspecting all the parts of the drivetrain, including the chain, pedals, front chainring, rear wheel cassette, and the derailleur
- Test the shifting of the gears by elevating the rear tire with a bike stand or by getting a partner’s help, turning the pedals, and shifting through each gear
- Inspecting the cables and the surrounding housing, looking for rust, crimps, cracks, or dirt
- Lubricating the chain and drivetrain
Learning to clean and maintain one’s own bike can be an enjoyable task for some; however, other riders may find the idea daunting. Most bike shops offer affordable and comprehensive tune-up packages that will get your bike road-ready in no time. A well-maintained bicycle will respond quickly and correctly to the rider, and help keep you safe on the road.
Contact Our Experienced Broomfield Lawyers About Bicycle Safety and Preventative Measures
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, an accident lawyer can help you determine if you were following bicycle safety and preventive measures in Broomfield and how that might affect an injury claim. At
Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., our committed lawyers are dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves justice. Contact us either online or by calling at
(866) 385-3505.
