Some Useful Tips for Cyclists in Edmonton to Stay Safe
For many people who live in Edmonton, cycling isn’t just a mode of transportation. It is, more or less, a way of life. From enjoying a leisurely ride in the park to commuting to work to even just running your day-to-day errands, cycling provides an eco-friendly and convenient way to move around the city. And given that they share the road with vehicles that are much bigger, it is important to prioritize safety. Bicycle accidents are more common than you think.
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Edmonton says that most bicycle accidents are a result of motorist negligence. This article will highlight some of the useful tips one should follow to stay safe when biking in Edmonton.
1. Wear a Helmet
Most cyclists usually know this one from the get-go. You have probably heard it a thousand times already. Anyway, it’s worth repeating. Wear a helmet.
In most Canadian provinces, cyclists under 18 years old are legally required to have helmets on when riding their bicycles. However, regardless of how old you are, it is always good to have a helmet when riding your bike.
2. Stay Visible
Staying safe on the road on a bike largely involves being visible, especially during poor weather conditions and low light. A standard bike does not have the same lights as a car or truck, and they’re often much easier to miss visually. Equip your standard bicycle with lights, and reflectors, and wear clothing that’s brightly coloured to ensure you are more visible to both pedestrians and motorists.
3. Follow Traffic Laws
It’s easy for most people to forget that cyclists on the road are, in fact, vehicles just like the other moving machines they’re sharing the road with. Just like the many other cars on the road, they’re traffic. This means that they need to obey the same traffic laws that all the other road users follow. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, indicating turns with hand signals, and giving way at pedestrian crosswalks.
4. Dismounting at Crosswalks
This is one of the tips that confuses people a great deal. It bewilders both cyclists and drivers alike. When nearing a crosswalk, cyclists are meant to dismount their bikes and walk across the street. This helps to make sure the pedestrians are safe and helps decrease the chances of accidents at the intersection.
5. Staying Aware and Alert
Avoid cycling while distracted. Things can sometimes change fast, and it is important to stay aware and alert at all times, no matter where you’re riding your bike. Look ahead for potential dangers on the road, try to anticipate what other road users are going to do, and always be ready to act accordingly whenever necessary.
As a cyclist, it’s important to share the roads you use responsibly with both pedestrians and motorists alike. Communicate what you want to do clearly, be courteous, and always ensure to give the right of way whenever appropriate.
6. Prep Your Ride
Check your brakes, chains, and tires regularly. Adjust your bike’s seat height for a pain-free and efficient ride. Your legs should almost be straight, with both your feet flat on the bike’s pedals. Also, always test-ride your bike a little before eventually hitting the open road.
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