It’s summertime, and everyone is out having fun. Bicycle riders are out in force. Whether your bike ride is a mountain marathon, or simply riding down the street to play in the park, Physicians Urgent Care encourages everyone to ride safely. Enjoy, and incorporate these reflections on bicycle safety.
The best reasons for bike riding are to have fun and get exercise. The #1 goal is to stay safe on your bike, doing whatever it takes to avoid being hit by a motor vehicle or having any type of accident. That is accomplished by adhering to bicycle safety rules and staying alert – paying close attention to your surroundings as you ride.
Staying safe on your bike includes:
- Wearing a well-fitting helmet. This offers protection for your head in case of accident. Wear it every time you ride, and fasten the strap, or the helmet isn’t going to protect you as it should.
- Fitting your bike. Make sure the seat, handlebars, and pedals fit you, and that the bike isn’t too tall or too small for you
- Be as visible as possible. Have reflectors on your bike, back and front, and in the spokes of each wheel. Wear reflective strips on your helmet, clothing, and shoes. Wear sneakers instead of sandals for your own safety.
- Use a backpack or basket to carry items in order to keep your hands on the handlebars. And have a holder for your water bottle.
- Use hand signals at intersections when you plan to stop or turn. Ride with the flow of traffic, and obey traffic lights and signs and laws.
- Cross the street at intersections and not from between parked cars where it’s difficult for drivers to see you in time to avoid accident.
- Don’t use headphones or earbuds when you’re riding. Be aware of the traffic sounds around you.
- Prepare your bike before you ride: check the tire pressures and brakes, check for and tighten any loose bolts, and oil the chain.
- Always be alert for vehicles, other riders, people, pets, and loose gravel and potholes on the roadways.
Implementing these bicycle safety tips will go a long way toward making your summer biking and exercise safe and fun. Physicians Urgent Care doesn’t want you to add to these statistics: More than a quarter million kids go to the ER annually as a result of bicycle injuries. And of the nearly 33,000 people who die in car crashes each year in the U.S., 1 in 40 is on a bicycle.
If you or your loved one is injured in a bike accident, come to your neighborhood Physicians Urgent Care in Franklin (615-472-1550) or Brentwood (615-457-3864), Tennessee. You’ll be seen by an ER doctor without the ER wait or expense. Our physicians and staff are expert medical providers skilled in caring for a wide range of injuries and illnesses. No appointment is necessary, just hurry in. We’re here to take good care of you and yours when you need us. We wish a happy summer to one and all!
Source: https://www.uppedal.com/cycling-accidents/