How do you prepare before riding your bike?

On Behalf of | Jan 22, 2020 | Bicycle Accidents |

Drivers must prepare well before getting on the road; the same applies to bicycle riders. Before you ride on a busy street, make sure you are not at risk of injuries should the worst happen. There are several ways to prepare before taking a ride. Before that, there is a need to look at bicycle accident statistics. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most bicycle accidents occur between 6 PM and 9 PM. Also, most bicycle deaths are reported in Urban areas at 75% while 25% occur in rural areas in 2017. In the same year, 37% of the accidents involved drunk riders with most of them being male. 

More likely than not, most bicycle riders do not prepare well before going out. One of the ways you should prepare is picking a sizeable bicycle. If you ride on a big bike that is not your fit, you may have a hard time controlling it in traffic. 

Checking your bike before you start riding is also essential. Always ensure the bike is in excellent condition with working brakes. Wear the right gear and most importantly, do not forget a helmet and reflector. It helps motorists to notice you even when there is poor visibility. 

Also, put all your items in a backpack so that your hands are free to hold the bike firmly. You can tuck your shoelaces so that they do not get caught in the bike chain while riding. Again, it will help if you plan your route, prioritize routes with less traffic and slower speeds. After following these steps without failure, you can now ride your bike without fear.