Did you know regular biking throughout adulthood protects against a variety of age-related health issues? Cycling can reduce cholesterol levels, prevent heart issues, and manage type II diabetes. Studies also show biking can help with stress, depression, or anxiety, and even improve mental cognition. But with great benefits, there’s also risk of injury—the U.S. Department of Transportation noted 726 accidental cyclist deaths and 50,000 bicycle-related injuries occurred in 2014.
Established in 1956, May is National Bike Month. As you go outside, enjoy the weather, and bike around the Buffalo Niagara Region, keep in mind the following safety tips:
- Follow traffic laws. Bicyclists must follow the same rules as motorists! You should ride in the direction of traffic. Use caution while crossing intersections and busy areas—even when you have the right of way. Stay alert, keep your head up and look around. Watch for car doors. Use hand signals to notify other cars or cyclists which way you intend to turn.
- Ride in lanes reserved for cyclists or ride on neighborhood streets. Research shows that cycle lanes result in fewer collision between cyclists and vehicles.
- Be seen. We all love black clothing, but for visibility’s sake, wear neon, fluorescent, or other bright clothing. If cycling at night, wear reflective clothing and use flashing lights to alert cars of your location.
If you or someone you love has suffered from an injury, reach out to the attorneys at The Coppola Firm. We’re here to help with what you need.
