As gas prices increase, more people turn to their bikes for their daily commute. And why not? It’s good for your health, good for the environment, and good for your wallet.
But before you dust off your helmet and join the pedaling masses, stop to consider if riding your bicycle is the safest option. According to the Washington Post, you are over two times more likely to die on your bike than in a car. And bike riding is 500 times more fatal than riding a bus.
Of course, that doesn’t make bike riding a nonstarter. But if you’re committed to this form of travel, it’s wise to get informed on the risks. This post will cover some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Clearwater and Tampa Bay. And as a bonus, you can read about some safety tips for bicycle riders before you go.
Driver Inattention
Let’s face it: distracted driving is virtually an epidemic in this country, including in Florida. The number one risk to your safety when you're pedaling is driver inattention. Drivers could be texting while driving, overtired, or even intoxicated.
Never assume that a driver has noticed you. Cars and trucks are much larger than your bike, and you are unlikely to come out ahead in a collision. Whatever the cause, getting hit by a car while on your bike can lead to devastating injuries.
Not Leaving an Adequate Buffer
Under Florida law, motorists should always leave a three-foot buffer between their vehicle and you when they are passing you on the road. Failure to leave a protective buffer can create unnecessary risk of hitting you or running you off the road and causing you to crash.
Speeding
Naturally, when the vehicles around you are speeding, the situation becomes more dangerous all around. The sheer size of a vehicle is no match for a bicyclist in an accident. But if a car, truck, or bus hits you at high speed, the chance of severe injury or death is much greater.
Did you know that bicycle riders can also be guilty of speeding? It’s true! In fact, they can even be issued a speeding ticket in certain circumstances.
In Florida, a bicycle is considered a vehicle under the law. Bicycle riders who travel are held to the same traffic laws as other travelers. For example, if you speed through a school zone or pick up too much speed on a downhill slope, you could be guilty of breaking the law. More importantly, you could put yourself and others at higher risk of an unexpected injury.
Lane Change or Turning Accidents
Motorists often don’t see bicyclists when they change lanes or initiate turns. They may not be accustomed to watching for bikers, or you might be in their blind spot. Be extra careful if you are continuing straight alongside a vehicle when the vehicle is turning right - they may not see you.
Likewise, when you have to change lanes, follow these tips to do so safely:
- Check your surroundings before changing lanes (just as you would in a car)
- Use your arm to signal your intention
- Make eye contact with drivers to ensure that you are seen
- Never cross more than one lane of traffic at a time
When moving across traffic, it’s important to always give yourself a buffer. Cutting it too close to another vehicle can cause an accident.
How to Stay Safe on Your Bike Commute
Now that you know some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Tampa Bay, you’re ready to learn more about bike safety.
Following are a few more recommendations for staying safe on your commute:
- Always wear a helmet (it reduces your risk of death)
- Keep your tires inflated
- Maintain your lights, reflectors, chains, and gears
- Wear reflective materials every time you ride
- Stay alert and keep your eyes on the road
- Stay off of sidewalks to avoid cracks and bumps
With these safety tips in hand, you’ll be better prepared to stay safe on the roads.
Contact the Tampa Bicycle Accident Law Firm of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer in Tampa. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers - Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500
