California is one of the most popular states in the country for bicycling. Cyclists come from all across the nation to traverse the beautiful roads while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are on the rise all over the world. In fact, cyclist fatalities jumped 10 percent last year compared to 2017. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration noted that this is the second year in a row that cyclist death tolls increased. As such, it is critical for all cycling enthusiasts to take extra precautions on the roads.

A strong love for exercise paired with an appreciation for the gorgeous weather lays the foundation for a large cyclist population in California. From the beaches to the mountains, bicycle lovers use the weekends and early mornings to ride all over the place. Sadly, traffic accidents make bike riding far more dangerous than it used to be.

Bicyclists in California must always remember that when a vehicle strikes a bicycle, the cyclist is far more likely to get seriously injured. Keep the following tips in mind to prevent bicycle accidents and stay safe:

1. Purchase a headlight for your bicycle and wear reflective bike gear
2. Always assume a driver does not see you
3. Slow down as you approach an intersection and pay special attention to traffic lights and street signs
4. Ride approximately 4 feet away from a car
5. Do not ride on the sidewalk
6. Maintain a speed that still enables a quick stop if necessary
7. Always ride in the same direction as traffic

While some bicycle accidents may be unavoidable, following the above tips will play a major role in helping to prevent them from occurring. As a cyclist, you must always be a defensive driver to protect yourself on the roads. In addition, never ride a bicycle without wearing a helmet.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in California, contact our San Francisco bicycle accident attorneys at your earliest convenience. With a free consultation, you will be able to speak with an experienced accident lawyer to learn about all of your options.