A recent radio segment about a bicyclist's serious accident highlights the dangers faced by both bicycle riders and motorcycle riders. ("I Believe in Being Careful" by Paul Lallement for WPSU's This I Believe.)
Lallement, of Pennsylvania, was riding his bicycle with his father and brother when he was hit by a motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries, including a concussion and extensive road rash.
Bicycle Safety
Lallement's choice to wear a helmet was a smart one - a choice that may have saved his life. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation offers these additional bike safety tips:
- When you are on a bicycle on the road, it is best to ride with the traffic pattern. Not only is it safer; it is also faster.
- Do not weave in and out of parked cars. Keep a steady, safe distance from parked cars, typically about three feet out.
- Avoid hugging the edge of the road so tightly that drivers are tempted to pass you, pushing you off the road.
- Do not rely solely on your ears. Use your eyes to pinpoint the location of the vehicles around you.
- Use your bicycle's lightness and versatility to be a defensive driver around hazards like potholes and large rocks.
- In general, follow the same rules as car driver; but take extra precautions because of your added exposure.
As the bicycle rider Lallement says, live life to the fullest - but do it carefully.
Motorcycle Safety
People on bicycles are not the only cyclists who are vulnerable. Motorcycle riders also should heed important safety rules to avoid motorcycle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers safety advice for motorcyclists to protect themselves from dangers on the road:
- Do not tailgate.
- Do not ride between lanes of traffic.
- Use appropriate signals.
- Drive defensively; do not assume that the drivers of cars notice you.
- Be most alert at intersections. This is where approximately 70 percent of the collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles happen.
- Wear protective gear, including helmet, eye protection, gloves, and durable jacket and pants.
- Keep in mind that motorcycles must follow the same rules as other vehicles.
Motorcyclists should take a driving course. Pennsylvania's Motorcycle Safety Program, for instance, offers riders a fundamentals course that is free for all Pennsylvania license holders.
If You Are Injured
If you are hurt in a bicycle crash or motorcycle accident that was caused by a negligent driver, speak with a Pennsylvania personal injury attorney who will help you understand your rights.
