Bicycle Safety 101: 3 Essential Tips from an Omaha Accident Lawyer
Bicycle accidents are more common than most people realize. According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, at least two people die on bicycles every day in the United States.
The lack of protection makes cyclists vulnerable. Survivors often face an uphill climb to recovery. The cost of health-care bills, ongoing rehabilitation and lost income can land families in overwhelming debt. This is where an accident lawyer may be able to help.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha accident attorney will structure your claim and aggressively fight for the maximum compensation. Our personal-injury attorneys have more than 45 years of combined legal experience.
Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit USAttorneys.com to learn more about car accident claims.
Here are three tips that can help cyclists stay safe on Nebraska roads:
- Buy Safety Equipment
The accessories available for bicycles today are far more effective than their predecessors – especially in terms of safety. All cyclists in Omaha should invest in white headlights, reflectors and red taillights to make them more visible to drivers.
There is no law that requires helmets in Nebraska, but this should not discourage you from wearing one. A helmet can save your life and prevent debilitating head injuries.
- Ride in the Street
Cyclists are safer when they ride in the road with the flow of traffic. The idea may seem terrifying, but traffic has rules that make it predictable. The protection of knowing what other motorists might do is crucial to bicycle safety. You can also use allocated bicycle lanes in certain areas.
There are other reasons to ride in traffic. Using sidewalks is illegal because they are exclusively for pedestrians. If you accidentally hit someone when riding on the sidewalk, then you may be liable for his or her injuries.
- Obey Traffic Laws
Traffic rules exist for everyone’s safety, and it is important that both motorists and bikers obey them. Do not take risks; darting into faster lanes, weaving between cars and disobeying traffic rules only puts everyone in danger. If you break a traffic rule and cause a collision, then you will be at fault and others may sue you for compensation.
All motorists must obey the rules of the road, regardless of the vehicle they drive. This is especially important for bicyclists because they are so vulnerable. Stop when you must. Indicate your intentions to other road users. Yield when necessary, increase your following distance and be alert for sudden dangers.
If you were injured in a bicycle crash, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha accident lawyer can gather evidence, structure your claim and protect your interests.
Our attorneys have litigated more than 100 jury trials, and if we do not win, you do not pay attorneys’ fees. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call 1-800-471-4100.
