Road safety is a priority throughout the year. However, with the new year comes new year resolutions. Since most resolutions revolve around fitness, this means people will be exercising. More importantly, they will be out on the street walking, jogging, running, and even cycling.
With so many people heading out onto the road this January it is imperative we remember basic road safety. It starts with following the rules of the road. To keep everyone safe, avoid accidents, and injuries we have put together some safety tips.
Motorist Road Safety
First, we would like to remind motorists to share the road. Be vigilant as cyclists and pedestrians will typically be out in the morning and evenings. Additionally, drivers should follow these tips:
- Turn on their headlights during twilight hours
- Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Adhere to the posted speed limit.
- When turning yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
- Look before opening your car door.
- Be careful when passing stopped vehicles.
- Allow three feet when passing cyclists.
Cyclist Road Safety
Similarly, cyclists will be traveling on the roadways the same as motorists. Therefore, they must follow all the same rules of the road. In addition, to obeying traffic signs and lights cyclists must use signals to indicate if they are stopping or turning. However, here are some other road safety tips cyclists should also follow:
- Do not wear headphones while riding.
- Be predictable, ride with traffic, do not swerve in the lane, and do not pass on the right.
- Be visible – wear reflective clothing, use a front headlight, and rear red light or reflector.
- Wear a helmet.
- Carry identification like driver’s license or ID
Pedestrian Road Safety
Unfortunately, not all areas have sidewalks. As a result, pedestrians could be using the roadways alone side of the motorists and cyclists. Therefore, pedestrians are bond to the same rules of the road. Whether you’re walking or running here are some tips to help keep you safe out on the road.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Use signaled crosswalks when possible
- Be visible, do not wear dark clothing
- Use a reflective device and wear reflective clothing during twilight hours.
- Carry identification like a driver’s license or ID bracelet.
If You Are Injured
Lastly, it is easy for drivers to forget they are sharing the road with cyclists and pedestrians. This can be dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians. Unlike the driver of a car, there is no protection for either the cyclist or the pedestrian in a collision. For this reason, an accident with an automobile could lead to serious injury or death.
In most cases of accidents that involve pedestrians or cyclists and an automobile, it is difficult to determine who is at fault. However, if you have an auto accident attorney, they will complete an accident scene investigation. This will help uncover the facts to protect your rights and allow you to recoup the maximum for your injuries.
CONTACT
After a car accident, you may not know what to do or who to call. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Let the Tampa auto accident attorneys at RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
