Bike Safety Checklist
California is among the top states for bike accident fatalities, with Los Angeles being one of the most dangerous cycling cities. What can you do to stay safe on Los Angeles’ roads? Here’s our bike safety checklist.
1
Always Wear a Helmet
To protect yourself when riding a bicycle, a properly fitted helmet is essential. Many bicyclists who died as a result of traffic accidents were not wearing helmets at the time. Bicycle helmet laws have made it about four times more likely that cyclists will wear helmets. In California, all bicycle riders under the age of 18 must wear helmets. The fines are small compared with the price to pay after a crash, both physically and legally. Many head injuries resulting from bicycle accidents could have been prevented or reduced if the cyclist was wearing a helmet. In a courtroom, many jurors are already biased against cyclists, believing they are reckless. Wearing a helmet communicates to jurors and the public at large that you are a responsible person.
Bicycle helmets have been estimated to reduce the risk of head injury by 85%
91% of bicyclists killed in 2009 were reportedly not wearing helmets.
2
Get Bicycle Insurance (Uninsured Motorist Insurance)
Under California law, drivers are required to have insurance, but the minimum coverage might not protect you in a crash. By ensuring that you have uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto insurance, you will know that your medical expenses are covered in a crash.
3
Wear a Helmet Cam
What better proof could you have of the facts of a crash than video?
4
Make Sure You Are Visible
Wear reflective clothing when riding at night. Ride with lights. During the day, avoid black or white — brighter colors stand out.
If you are injured in any kind of bicycle accident, it’s critical to protect your rights with help from a qualified attorney. To connect with an attorney who understands the risks bicyclists face and who cares about your case, contact attorney Josh Cohen today.