Riding a bike is great for exercise, but it can be much more dangerous than driving a vehicle. That’s because bicyclists’ only protection is the safety gear they wear. And for most adults, that amounts to a helmet—if that.
Although the biggest risk factor that bicyclists face in Virginia is inattentive drivers, another major risk factor is present during winter: icy roads, fallen tree limbs, and potholes. Here’s how these hazards can put bicyclists at risk of serious accidents and injuries:
- Ice—Ice is the natural enemy of anyone using a roadway. It causes tires to lose their grip and brakes to lose their effectiveness. As a bicyclist, you’re better able to spot ice than people in vehicles, so take advantage of that by always scanning the road ahead.
- Fallen limbs—Winter weather often causes downed limbs, especially after heavy snowfall and ice accumulation. Even small branches and sticks can cause bicyclists to take painful spills onto the road. When swerving to avoid downed limbs, check to ensure the road or adjacent lane is clear.
- Potholes—When water gets into small cracks in the pavement and freezes, it expands and can cause the pavement to break apart. That results in potholes. These hazards are dangerous for everyone, including drivers, motorcyclists, and bicyclists, who can flip over the handlebars if their front tires enter them.
At Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers, it’s our job to help injured Virginia bicyclists get the compensation they’re owed when they’re hurt because of others’ negligence—even if that negligence is on the part of governmental agencies or road crews. Contact us today for a free consultation.
