Cycling as a means of commuting is becoming more and more popular. But not everyone works a traditional 9-to-5 job, so some cyclists end up riding their bikes in the dark during the early morning or late at night.
This can be slightly unnerving, especially if you’re not used to it, and you certainly want to know how to keep yourself safe. You understand the risks that you face if you’re hit by a negligent driver, as you could suffer severe head injuries, spinal cord injuries and much more. Here are a few things you can do to stay safe.
Choose familiar roads
Start by choosing roads that you’re already familiar with. Try to pick those that have lower levels of traffic and that have good illumination from streetlights.
Invest in bike lights
The more you can do to put lights on your bike, the better. Many riders have LED headlights and taillights, which may be set to a strobe configuration so that they are especially effective at getting drivers’ attention. You may also consider a headlamp or an LED vest.
Wear reflective clothing
Reflective clothing can also be majorly helpful when you’re riding your bike because the headlights of every passing car will make you that much more visible. One effective way to do this can be to put reflective tape on your shoes, as the movement of peddling will draw the attention of nearby drivers.
These tips can certainly help you commute safely and avoid an accident, but nothing guarantees that a driver won’t injure you when they make a mistake. If this happens, you may be able to seek financial compensation for your medical bills and other costs.
