Summertime Safety Tips for Bicyclists and Motorists to Share the Roads in Whittier, California

Summertime in California provides beautiful conditions for bicycling. Whether you are riding for pleasure, exercise, or to commute, both bicyclists and motorists must do their part to remain safe on our roadways.

Last year there were over 12,000 bicycle accident injuries reported throughout the state.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 155 bicycle accident fatalities, accounting for 4.4% of all traffic-related fatalities over the same period.

By law, bicycles share the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicles, and at Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP , our personal injury attorneys in Whittier are encouraging safer choices by both bicyclists and drivers to help reduce injuries and deaths on our roads.

Tips for California Bicyclists to Stay Safe on Our California Roadways?

Bicycling in Whittier is great exercise and fun.

Here are a few tips to help bicyclists and their loved ones ride safely:

• Ride a bike that fits you, so it is easily controlled.
• Ensure all tires are inflated, brakes are working, and the handlebars are tightly attached.
• Wear protective equipment, including a helmet, reflective gear, and bright clothing.
• Tuck pant legs, and ensure shoes are tied to avoid getting caught in the bike chain.
• Carry all items strapped to the back of the bike or in a backpack.
• Ride with only one person per seat, with both hands on the handlebars, unless signaling a turn.
• Plan the route to include bike lanes, paths, or other streets where there is less traffic.
• Do not text or talk while riding a bike.
• Drive with the flow, in the same direction as traffic.
• Obey street signs, signals, and road markings.
• Look ahead for hazards, including potholes or debris in the roadways.

When bicyclists drive defensively and assume motorists do not see them, they can help avoid collisions before they occur.

Tips for Motorists to Safely Share the Roads with Bicyclists Throughout California

Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists throughout California.

That means drivers have the same responsibility to share the roads with riders as they would other motorists.

Here are a few tips to help motorists do so:

• Obey the speed limit.
• Yield to bicyclists as they are other motorists.
• To avoid turning into a rider, do not underestimate the speed of an approaching bicycle.
• Avoid turning right on red without looking to the right and behind to avoid hitting a bicyclist approaching from the right rear.
• Give cyclists room and avoid passing too closely.
• When parking or pulling away, motorists should search their surroundings for other vehicles, including bicycles.

If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, contact our experienced Whittier personal injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP  today by calling (562)698-6446 to learn how we can pursue the financial recovery you are entitled to from the liable party.