Riding a bike? Follow the rules of the road
Riding a bicycle can be a dangerous proposition sometimes because cyclists are frequently the victims of accidents and crashes. These accidents are often outside of the control of the cyclist in question, but it is important to remember that bicycle riders must obey all rules of the road for their own safety. What that means depends on the state that the bicycle rider lives in. Connecticut has a series of traffic laws that apply to cyclists.
What are these rules?
When it comes to preventing bike accidents, there are many things that you can do. This includes:
- Obeying all signals, including traffic lights, stop signs and yield signs
- Signaling when you turn
- Wearing bright clothing and using lights when driving in the dark
- Keeping to the right side of the road
- Only riding when you are in a condition to do so, meaning that you are not under the influence of any drugs or alcohol
- Staying in bike lanes when present
The rights of injured cyclists
It is important to realize that bicycle riders have rights on the road, and those rights include being able to safely use public roads just like any pedestrian or car. If you are injured in a bike accident, you may be entitled to fair compensation under personal injury law. After all, drivers have to watch for bicycle riders and ensure that they are safely using the road. This means signaling appropriately, yielding when the law requires it and more.
As a cyclist, the last thing you want to do is get injured. Proper use of the road can usually prevent such injuries. Stay alert and follow all local traffic laws when you drive, and you’ll increase your chances of safely riding.