6 Important Things That Every Cyclist Must Know About

There are many things that cyclists need to be aware of when they are out on the road. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, it is important to know the rules of the road and how to stay safe while cycling. This blog post will discuss six important things that every cyclist should know.

Know your gears

One of the primary things that cyclists need to know is how to use their gears properly. Knowing when and how to shift can make a big difference in your riding experience. Shift gears before you start pedaling, not while you are pedaling. When you know your gears extensively, you will be able to use them properly and keep yourself safe while you are on the road. However, there are instances wherein you may still encounter an accident no matter how skilled you are in using your gears. In this case, a seasoned Phoenix bicycle accident attorney suggests that when you find yourself involved in a road mishap, you should contact an expert as soon as possible to get the best legal advice. This way, you can protect your rights and get the compensation that you deserve.

Know your traffic laws as well

Another important thing to remember as a cyclist is to know the traffic laws in your area. Make sure that you are aware of things like stop signs, yield signs, and right-of-way laws. Stop signs are particularly important, as cyclists have been killed after running into them. These are meant to keep both cyclists and motorists safe on the road, so make sure that you obey them.

Yield signs are also important, as they tell you when to stop and let other vehicles pass. Remember that motorists always have the right of way, so if you are approaching a yield sign, make sure to stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear before proceeding. In addition to this, right-of-way laws state that cyclists have the right to ride in the road, just as motorists do. This means that you should not be riding on the sidewalk, as this can be dangerous for both you and pedestrians. When you are familiar with these laws, you will be able to ride safely and avoid getting into accidents.

Be visible

One of the most important things you can do as a cyclist is to make yourself visible to drivers. Wear bright colors, use reflectors, and install lights on your bike so that drivers can see you easily. This will help reduce the chances of getting hit by a car. More often than not, drivers do not see cyclists until it is too late, so making yourself visible is key to staying safe while cycling.

Be predictable too

To be safe while cycling, you need to be predictable. Ride in a straight line and use hand signals so that drivers can anticipate your movements. Some hand signals that you should know include extending your left arm out to the side indicating that you will do a left turn, as well as extending your right arm out to the side if you want to do a right turn. Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings and watch out for potholes, debris on the road, and other cyclists.

Stay alert

It is also important to stay alert while cycling. This means keeping your head up and paying attention to what is going on around you. Do not listen to music or talk on the phone while you are riding, as this can make you less aware of your surroundings. When you want to listen to music or talk on the phone, it is best to pull over to the side of the road and stop. This way, you can safely enjoy your music or conversation and not put yourself at risk.

Have fun

Finally, remember to have fun while cycling. It is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Be safe while you are out on the road, but also take the time to enjoy your ride. This means being aware of your surroundings and taking in the sights and sounds of your environment. Keep in mind that cycling is a great way to explore your community and see things that you would not normally see from a car such as parks, gardens, and small businesses.

Cycling can be a fun and enjoyable way to get around, but it is important to be aware of the dangers that come with it. By following these six tips, you can reduce the chances of getting into an accident while cycling. Rest assured that by being safe and following the law, you are doing everything possible to protect yourself while out on the road.