The statistics are staggering: from 2012 to 2013 alone, there were over 3000 visits to the emergency room and almost 700 hospitalizations due to accidents involving cyclists. In 2013, Toronto had the highest number among all Canadian cities of fatalities caused by motor vehicle collisions.
Cyclists are among the most vulnerable users of the road. Thus, by practicing safety while riding, you can help ensure that you will not be a statistic.
The following four tips will help keep you safe as you ride:
- Be Predictable: Don’t surprise other drivers with any sudden turns. Clearly signal your intentions in advance and make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians, so that they can anticipate your next action. It is also important to obey the rules of the road and all traffic signals.
- Pay Attention and Be Patient: Eliminate distractions such as headphones or cell phones. Makes sure an intersection is clear before you proceed. “Cyclists are vulnerable road users. You don’t have the same framework that a car has to protect you, so you really do have to be your own advocate in a lot of ways” says Caroline Grech, government relations specialist for the Canadian Automobile Association.
- Ride with the Traffic: Riding against the traffic is dangerous and illegal. It is also helpful for cyclists to know their routes well so that they know what they will encounter. States Grech: “The more you do it, the more you’ll know where some tricky situations could arise, or you know the traffic flows or the times that are a little bit better for you to travel.”
- Know Your Limits: Know what you are capable of and don’t over exert yourself. Practice on quieter streets before you hit busier roads with more cars.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your summer is a safe one – without accidents. If you are involved in an accident, consult with a bicycle accident lawyer to understand your rights.
