One of the ways that many people are improving their health and helping the environment is by bicycling around the city when they can. There are plenty of benefits to bicycling, since it can provide you with more exercise, and help you save money on fuel costs.
The number of bicycles in Seattle is on the rise, and that means that you need to be aware of the dangers — especially since Seattle still has some work to do in order to become friendlier to bicyclists and pedestrians.
United States Dangerous for Bicyclists
A report released in late 2013 by the OECD takes a look at some of the dangers associated with cycling in the United States. Since it’s a relatively new trend in America, sometimes car drivers and bicyclists don’t always know how to interact with each other. Additionally, in many cities the infrastructure wasn’t designed to accommodate bicyclists.
One of the issues, according to the OECD, is that cyclists contribute to fatal and serious bike crashes by running red lights. For some, especially new cyclists, it’s important to understand and follow traffic laws. In nearly one-third of fatal bicycle crashes, motorists were charged with traffic violations, which indicates that, in some cases, bicyclists are the victims of motorists who aren’t following traffic regulations.
In order to be safer on the streets as a cyclist, it makes sense to observe traffic laws, and be alert. Additionally, it would probably help if motorists also took the time to observe their surroundings and follow the law. The OECD also points out that in 68 percent of fatal bicycle crashes, the blame was placed on the cyclist. However, since the cyclists in these cases aren’t around to share their own version of events, the numbers are called into question.
Seattle itself has its own issues with bicycle safety. While some efforts have been made in light of recent high-profile bicycle fatalities, the reality is that some areas can be quite unsafe for bicyclists in Seattle. In some cases, though, the changes to infrastructure, like those being made made on NW 45th Street and the surrounding area, have been bogged down. However, as improvements are made, Seattle should become more friendly toward bicyclists.
What to Do to Protect Yourself as a Cyclist
Since bicyclists are most likely to be injured during an accident with a motor vehicle, it’s important for you to take precautions. One of the most important things you can do is wear a helmet. This can help reduce the chances of death or serious injury to your head. Awareness is also very important. While you might want to listen to music on your headphones, the reality is that a motorist not paying attention to traffic laws could cause injury — or even death. It might not be fair, but you need to be aware of your surroundings as you cycle through the city.
It is also a good idea to know where to turn if you are injured. While a motorist’s insurance company should pay for injuries if it’s the driver’s fault, insurance companies are adept at getting out of paying the bill. It makes sense to hire a lawyer if you are injured while bicycling. You want to make sure that you are properly rehabilitated, and that you don’t bear the costs associated with injuries that are not your fault. Look for a good personal injury lawyer to help you out.
Cities like Seattle should be making efforts to make it easier and safer for bicyclists. Because of the health, environmental, and financial benefits of bicycling, it’s no surprise that this is a rising trend. However, you can’t wait for the city to take care of things. Be proactive in your efforts to be safe, and be prepared with a personal injury lawyer in the event that you are injured through no fault of your own.
Bicycling in Seattle? Better Be Aware of the Dangers. by James Sorrels