Summer is here and it seems more cyclists are on the road every day. Unfortunately, more time riding your bike increases your risk of a Salt Lake City bicycle collision. It’s enough to keep some cyclists off the roads entirely.
The greater understanding you have of what causes bicycle accidents in Utah and what kind of measures you can take to avoid getting hit, the more you will be able to identify a dangerous situation and take measures to protect yourself before coming to harm.
In part one of this three-part series, we told you about two common auto-bike collisions in Salt Lake City. In this article learn two more ways car-bike crashes occur and what you can do to prevent them.
Types of Bicycle Collisions and How Riders Can Protect Themselves
3. Left-Cross
What happens: A driver turns left at an intersection, either driving immediately in front of or directly into a cyclist crossing the intersection.
How cyclists can protect themselves: Again, riding further to the left in your lane will make you more visible. Drivers who are about to make a left turn may be overly focused on oncoming motor vehicles, so cyclists riding very far to the right may not visually register in time. If you coast, a driver may think you are coming to a stop, so keep pedaling as you approach and ride through the intersection. If you haven’t already, learn how to perform an emergency quick turn to avoid getting hit in this scenario. Wear brightly colored clothing, a visibility vest, and a flashing light to make yourself more visible.
4. Drive Out
What happens: A motor vehicle exiting a side street drives into or in front of a passing cyclist.
How cyclists can protect themselves: This kind of accident happens most where there are a lot of driveways, side streets, and alleys, so take extra care when riding in areas where these are present. Ride further left so drivers approaching from a side street will be better able to see you in the road. Definitely avoid riding on the shoulder or any area right of the street edge line, as you will be significantly less visible. Again, wear brightly colored clothing, a visibility vest, and a flashing light to make yourself more visible.
For more information about collisions and evasive steering techniques, contact a Utah bicycle advocacy group or the local police department’s public outreach division.
To learn more about what Salt Lake bike injury lawyer James Esparza can do for you and your loved ones after suffering the consequences of a negligent driver, call toll-free 800-745-4050 today.