Bike Safety Essential in World of Distracted Drivers

With the numbers of bicyclists on Utah’s roads increasing every day, one can only imagine that they would take precautions to make themselves noticeable and safe.

It’s amazing how many of them ride at night and don’t take those precautions. It’s no wonder drivers resent them.

Thankfully, Utah law now requires that all bicyclists use headlights, rear lights, and reflectors that are visible within 500 feet of the low-beam headlights on cars. Why they needed to make a law about this is surprising. It would seem that cyclists would want to do everything they can to make cars notice them. With drivers so distracted these days, it’s just a matter of self-protection.

Riders should also wear eye catching clothing, such as flashy spandex suits, and helmets.

In 2008, 716 bicyclists were killed in traffic accidents, and yet there still isn’t a law stating that riders must wear a helmet while riding a bike. Any type of biker should wear a helmet when riding. It’s just common sense!

Other ways to keep safe from a bicycle injury is to wear sports sunglasses to keep dust and bugs out of your eyes. You should also wear padded gloves to keep your hands from blistering and getting injured by debris.

Avoid riding at night, but if you must do so, make sure you stay alert and use appropriate lights.

Always make sure that your bike is working correctly. Check the brakes and make sure there are no loose or broken parts.