Bicycle Injury Lawyer

JodatMarch 16, 2016

Jodat Law Group – Bicycle Injury Lawyer

This May, the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging bicyclists and motorists to obey traffic laws, respect each other’s rights, and share the roads responsibly.

This safety message is being kicked off as the agency joins the League of American Bicyclists and other bicycle advocacy groups and highway safety organizations across the country in celebrating May as National Bike Month.

NHTSA Stats

• In 2012, there were 49,000 injuries and 726 fatalities in bicycle accidents involving motor vehicle crashes. This is a significant increase from the previous year.
• The majority of these fatalities involved male riders (88 percent).
• Almost two-thirds of the fatal accidents occurred in urban areas, and more than half occurred at non-intersections.
• Approximately half of the fatalities occurred between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and midnight.

Safety Tips for Cyclists

• Always wear a helmet and make sure your helmet meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
• Before going out for a ride, do a quick safety-check on the bike. Check the air pressure in the tires, test the brakes, and make sure the handlebars, seat, and gears are all functioning properly.
• Always ride in the same direction as motor vehicle traffic.
• Follow the rules of the road, just as a motorist would. Obey traffic signs and signals, and follow lane markings.
• Use hand signals to inform others of your intent to change lanes or turn.
• Wear bright, reflective clothing and never ride at night unless your bike is outfitted with lights.
• Do not be a distracted rider. Hand-held devices, such as smart phones and iPods should not be used while riding.
• Never ride while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Keep an eye out for cars and trucks backing out of driveways or parking lots, and use caution around cars that are preparing to turn.
• Do not wear earphones or listen to music while you are riding. Although it may be enjoyable to do so, listening to music may block out important traffic noises.
• Always ride in single file or two abreast (if your state allows it). However, single file is safest.

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Never drive in, or veer into, a designated bicycle lane.
• When passing a bicyclist, always provide a minimum of three feet between your vehicle and the bike.
• Always double-check for bicyclists before you pull out of a parking space or open your car door.
• At intersections, always yield to bicyclists.
• Before making a right or left-hand turn, always look for bicyclists.
• Do not drive distracted or fatigued, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Jodat Law Group – Bicycle Accident Attorneys

If you or someone you know needs a bicycle injury lawyer, Jodat Law Group can help. For decades, Jodat Law Group has been helping clients through the challenging times in their lives. We represent clients in Englewood, Ellenton, Brandon, Palmetto, North Port, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Sun City, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Venice, and Tampa. Call Jodat Law Group today for a free consultation.