Whether you’re biking across town or on a trail, wearing safety equipment is essential. Unlike cars or trucks, bicycles don’t have airbags or other safety features which protect riders from suffering severe injuries in a fall or accident. Bicyclists are also smaller than other vehicles and often inhabit blind spots for drivers. In order to avoid potential bicycle accidents, bicyclists need to look out for themselves while riding.
While a bicycle may not have any built-in safety features, riders can wear and equip their bikes with gear that may reduce the likelihood and protect them in the event of a collision. From durable clothing to sturdy gadgets, there are various types of additions a rider can use to keep themselves safe while riding.
6 Types of Safety Equipment Available to Bicyclists in Oregon
There are many types of safety equipment a rider may use when riding in Oregon. The following examples are some essentials when protecting yourself on the road:
Fitted Helmet
Helmets are required by law in Oregon, but it’s essential to ensure they fit tight and secure on your head. If the helmet is loose or unclipped, the protective gear may fall off or not fully protect your head. In bicycle accidents, the head is highly vulnerable and may suffer severe, life-threatening harm without a property helmet.
Reflective Gear
At times with low visibility, wearing a reflective vest or having your bike equipped with reflective additions may save your life. In the early morning, during thick fog, and at night is where drivers may have a more challenging time seeing bicyclists. Reflective gear will allow the driver to see the bicyclist and take the necessary precautions.
Shatter-Resistant Eye Wear
Another piece of essential equipment is eye protection. When you’re riding at high speeds, road debris, bugs, and other material may harm your eyes. Not only will it cause you to lose sight of the road in front of you, but it will also damage your eyes. If you are in an accident, your eyes may be at risk of suffering harm from the ground or other objects in the vicinity.
Emergency Tools
Bicycles are machines with various intricate systems and may break unexpectedly. Having tools on you may come in handy if there suddenly becomes a problem while riding. For example, if your bike needs more air, having a portable tire pump will save you time and keep your bicycle in proper condition.
Bicycle Gloves
Your hands are another vulnerable area that may suffer serious damage during an accident. Having gloves will allow you to catch yourself without suffering harm and support you during your ride.
First-Aid Pack
Anything can happen while riding your bicycle. For minor injuries, a first-aid pack will provide you with the necessary equipment to fix any damage. If you are in a dangerous accident and require immediate medical care, a first aid pack may help you until emergency medical care arrives. Whether you create your own first-aid kit or buy one from the store, having medical care may significantly help you in dangerous situations.
Without safety equipment, bicyclists risk suffering severe, life-threatening damage in an accident. With the above tools, riders have the potential to avoid harmful injuries.
Contact a Professional Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Oregon
There are many health benefits to riding a bicycle. However, riders must stay vigilant and prepared on the road in case of an emergency. If you suffer life-threatening damage in a bicycle accident, contact a compassionate Rizk Law lawyer. With years of experience and knowledge, our team has the tools and resources to provide you with the best possible outcome for your claim. When someone’s negligence and careless actions put you at risk, you deserve to recover compensation for your losses and hold them accountable for their actions.
Every person and injury claim is unique and requires legal services tailored to a client’s specific needs. Learn more about our services and receive a free consultation by calling (503) 245-5677 or filling out our contact form today.
