A few weeks ago, WPRI reported on an accident involving the wrongful death of cyclist in Middletown, RI. The driver apparently had issues with seeing the road ahead due to the sun glaring into his windshield. While turning left, he struck the cyclist, fatally injuring him. Our condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends. This is the time of year when more and more bicycles are heading out into the streets. As cycling becomes more popular, bicycle accidents increase as well. No matter if you live in Rhode Island or Utah, when sharing the road with motor vehicles, the chances of becoming injured as a bicyclist is fairly the same.
Bicycle Safety Tips
The Christensen Law Firm has published a free bicyclist accident book that is available for the community. Included in these books is sound legal information concerning Utah’s state laws and safety tips. More specifically, The Utah Bicycle Accident Handbook has legal information and safety tips for bicyclists. The following list is a few safety tips provided throughout the book:
- Always wear a helmet;
- Ride on the right-hand side of the road;
- Make sure you stop at stop signs;
- Teach your child the laws of the road;
- Don’t forget to alert drivers behind you if you intend to make a left-hand turn by using the appropriate hand signals;
- Buy a bike appropriate to the size of your child;
- Don’t pass on the right;
- Ditch the headphones and iPod; and
- Wear noticeable clothing.