For cyclists that are commuting and biking around traffic, exercising caution is of the utmost importance. You can read up on all the latest info regarding bicycle and pedestrian accidents on our blog. For now, let’s look at some tips for road bike safety around traffic.

Follow the Law

The first and most important thing to make sure that you’re doing while cycling around traffic is to follow the law. Iowa’s bike laws require the following.

  • Use of arm or hand signals
  • Riding on the right side of the road with traffic rather than against it
  • Utilization of a light before/after daylight

All other rules of motor vehicles (yielding where appropriate, stopping at red lights, etc.).

Don’t Do Anything Spontaneous

When riding around cars—especially in a highly trafficked area—it’s important that you remain predictable and resist the urge to do anything spontaneous. Don’t swerve between cars. Ride in a straight line, and don’t make a turn without using the correct hand/arm signal first. Other vehicles will have a harder time navigating around you safely if you’re riding unpredictably.

Make Sure Other Cars Can See You

Numerous accidents are caused each year only because other drivers can’t see the biker, or notice a biker too late. Reduce your chances of being in an accident that’s caused by poor visibility by ensuring other cars can see you.

Some tips on visibility.

  • Wear bright colors
  • Use reflectors
  • Add reflective tape to your outfit or helmet
  • Make sure that your bike is equipped with a light (especially at night)

Also, remember that Iowa law requires rear lights.

Wear the Right Safety Gear

Finally, perhaps the most significant thing that you can do when biking around traffic—or anywhere else, for that matter—is to make sure you’re wearing the right safety gear. Always wear clothing that’s appropriate for the weather, gloves if necessary, and a helmet that’s DOT or Snell-approved, and that fits you properly.

Take Action to Keep Yourself Safe!

Following the safety tips above is essential to keeping you accident-free when riding around traffic. Sometimes, an accident occurs that is caused by a motorist’s negligence, though, not a cyclist’s lack of safety.

If you’re in an accident that’s caused by an unsafe driver, don’t hesitate to take legal action. At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, we can help you recover the damages that you need! Contact us at (641) 792-3595 today.  To learn more about our bicycle safety campaign go to www.look4bicycle.com

Corey Walker
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With over 28 years legal experience, Corey has been recognized for his work as an injury attorney.