Prevent Accidents this Bicycle Safety Month

Every year, Texas cities get more bicycle-friendly. The League of American Bicyclists has named several Texas cities to its list of Bicycle Friendly Communities, including Fort Worth, Houston Austin, El Paso, and San Antonio.

As more and more Texans take advantage of improved conditions for cyclists, the potential for vehicle/bicycle accidents increases. By practicing these safety tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, both drivers and bicyclists can protect themselves from becoming the victims of an accident.

If you have been injured in a bicycle crash, contact the reputable Fort Worth personal injury attorneys at Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP today. Call (817) 920-9000 for a free consultation.

Become a Roll Model!

The NHTSA has started its Roll Model campaign, which encourages all drivers and cyclists to observe bicycle safety. This campaign hopes to enhance the safety of everyone who uses the road, whether riding or driving.

You can become a “Roll Model” for our community by:

• Riding and Driving Focused – Not distracted
• Riding and Driving Prepared – Always expect the unexpected
• Putting Safety First – Always wear a helmet on a bike and a seat belt in a car
• Follow the rules of the road – A bicyclist has all the rights and responsibilities of other traffic on the road.
• Expect Assistance from Law Enforcement – Police should address unsafe behaviors that put cyclists at risk
• Share the Road – Both cyclists and motors must look out for each other and share the road

If cyclists observe proper road safety rules, and drivers respect cyclists right to be on the road, many bike/car accidents can be avoided.

Drivers Can Help Avoid Bicycle Accidents

In a collision between a bicycle and an automobile, the cyclist is usually the most badly injured. As a result, drivers have an added responsibility to make sure that their conduct does not seriously injure or kill a bicyclist who is sharing the road. Some important precautions drivers can take include:

• Look for and pay attention to bicycles on the road
• Do not drive while distracted.
• Keep at least three feet of space between your vehicle and a bicycle
• Don’t crowd or tailgate cyclists
• Check for oncoming cyclists before opening car doors
• Yield to bicyclists as you would any other vehicle on the road

Everyone who shares Texas roadways is responsible for keeping each other safe. Failing to yield to cyclists or not respecting a bicycles right to share the road can lead to significant liability for drivers who cause an accident. Do your part by becoming a good roll model for your community!