Bicycles and Personal Injury

Riding to work, getting exercise, or are simply enjoying a leisure Sunday afternoon ride, the danger of being hit by a car on a bike are ever present. If a cyclist is hit by a car or truck, serious injury and even death can occur. When taking to the streets, it is crucial to be aware of the 16 bicycle laws Utah has. Following the law will help you and the motorists on the road stay safe and protected while riding.

Utah Laws for Cyclists

• bicycles are considered vehicles and are required to follow the traffic laws i.e. riding the same way as traffic, yielding to pedestrians, and stopping at lights.
• if riding before sunrise or after sunset, having a white headlight on the front of the bike, side reflectors, and a back red reflector light that is visible for 500 feet.
• cyclists must signal at least two seconds before making a turn, speeding up or slowing down, or stopping abruptly.
• one hand must be kept on the handlebars at all times.
• use the bike lane when available

Other Tips for Safe Riding

• during the day do NOT wear reflective clothing it will decrease the driver’s ability to see you.
• at night WEAR reflective clothing to help drivers see you when their lights shine on you.
• stay at least three feet away from cars.

Common accidents that can happen when commuting and cycling. A driver is not paying attention to the right lane can slam on the brakes and turn into the cyclist riding by in the biking lane on the right or when a car is turning left and doesn’t see the cyclist and slams into them.

If you are hit by a car on a bike remember to stay calm and call the police, even if you think you are completely fine. Make sure to contact us to help you with your personal injury. For more tips on bicycle safety and ideas for commuting to work check out:

http://www.udot.utah.gov/main/uconowner.gf?n=2256086418924069920