Bicycle safety gear: It’s a must

As a bicyclist, you should do whatever it takes to avoid trouble. By doing this, you never have to worry if your safety gear will prevent an injury.

Unfortunately, even if you’re the safest bicyclist on the road, there’s a chance you could be part of an accident. With this in mind, you should use the right safety gear at all times.

Here are the items you should learn more about:

• Bicycle helmet. Without one of these you are taking a big risk every time you get on your bike. You should wear a helmet at all times, as this could be the one thing that protects you from a serious injury or even death.
• Gloves. If you fall from your bicycle for any reason, you’ll probably use your hands to brace yourself. Subsequently, wearing gloves can help prevent injury.
• Mouth guard. Often overlooked, a mouth guard can help protect your teeth and gums should you hit your face on your bicycle or the pavement (or anything else).
• Long pants and long sleeves. It’s not always possible to wear long pants and long sleeves when cycling, such as when temperatures are high, but it’s something to consider.
• Reflectors. It only costs a few dollars to add reflectors to your bicycle, so it’s something you’ll want to do as soon as possible. These go a long way in helping drivers spot you and your bike.

It sounds like a lot of work to wear all of this bicycle safety gear, but there is nothing more important than your health. Once you get into the habit of using these items, it will become second nature.

If you’re part of a bicycle accident, you should call for help and stay where you are until an ambulance arrives.

As you make your recovery, learn more about the accident. This will lead you to information regarding who was at fault, as well as details surrounding your legal rights as a bicyclist.