3 Cautions for Cyclists in San Diego, California

3 Cautions for Cyclists in San Diego, California

If you ride your bike for exercise, to work, or even just recreationally, we want you to ride safely. We’re going to look at three times a cyclist needs to use extra caution and how you may be able to avoid injury.

#1 When Approaching Turns

Cyclists generally stay to the right, especially if there is a bike lane. That means you will often be at greatest risk when there is a place for motorists to make a right-hand turn. Why is this the case? For one thing, a driver who doesn’t see a cyclist alongside them may make that right-hand turn suddenly and clip the bike. Second, drivers often fail to use turn signals, so you may get no warning that the car is about to turn until they start to break and crank the wheel over.

#2 When Leaving the Bike Lane

There are several situations where leaving the bike lane is legal. Sometimes it is even the safer course of action. One of the times it is okay for you to leave the bike lane is when approaching a place where cars can make a right-hand turn. Moving into the car lane will alert drivers to your presence and ensure they don’t make a right-hand turn with you alongside them.

#3 When at a Traffic Light

Some drivers see that green light and stomp on the gas without looking in any direction. If you are alongside a car at a light, and they are making a right-hand turn, give them space or try to make eye-contact with the driver. Unfortunately, once again, some drivers fail to signal properly. So don’t assume that car next to you will be zooming on straight ahead when the light turns green.

If You Have Been Injured in a Bike Accident

The personal injury attorneys at Petrov Law Firm are here to help if you have been injured in a cycling accident. An officer who is unfamiliar with bike laws may have made the accident out to be your fault, but there are laws that protect cyclist. We can help you to gain the compensation you deserve for medical bills and other losses. Call 619-344-0360 today to learn more.