Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle accidents tend to occur more frequently after the sun goes down because bicyclists are less visible to motorists. If you ride your bicycle from work in the evening or prefer to exercise in the nighttime, you will have to be extra careful to prevent a collision. Here are a few tips for avoiding a bicycle accident at night.

Illuminate Your Bicycle

As mentioned above, bicyclists are much more difficult to see at night. That’s why it’s important to illuminate your bicycle if you plan to ride in the evening. Start by installing lights at the front and rear end of your bicycle to enhance your visibility. Drivers will be able to see your bicycle more clearly and make way for you. Remember to charge these lights before riding your bicycle in the dark.

Adding reflective gear, such as reflective gloves and pedals, is another effective way to illuminate your bicycle. 

Wear the Right Clothes

If you want to be more visible on your bicycle at night, you also have to consider the clothes you wear. Light-colored shirts and pants reflect more light at night, so others will see you better.

Be Extra Cautious

Although you should always be careful when riding a bicycle, this is especially important once the sun goes down. Slow down your speed, make full stops at stop signs and stop lights, yield to approaching vehicles and avoid blind spots. The more cautious you are, the less likely you are to get into an accident.

Ride in Groups

There is safety in numbers, especially when it comes to riding a bicycle at night. If possible, try riding your bicycle with several other bicyclists. Vehicles will be more likely to see bicyclists riding in groups.

Plan Your Route

When you are riding a bicycle at night, it is wise to plan your route before you head out. In your route, you will want to avoid roads that aren’t well-lit and without safe bike lanes. You may be able to find a guide to safe bike routes in your city online.

Even if you take all of the proper safety precautions, you can’t control the actions of others on the road. If you were hurt in a bicycle accident caused by another motorist, schedule a consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your case.