Nighttime Bicycling: Tips for Riding Safely in the Dark

Millions of Americans enjoy daily bicycling, both for recreation and to commute from place to place. Unfortunately, whenever bicyclists and motor vehicles are near one another, accidents are bound to happen. Often bicyclists are difficult for motorists to see due to their size, and this is an issue that is particularly true at night or in poor visibility conditions. When bicyclists are struck by cars, trucks, or other motor vehicles, the injuries that they sustain can often be severe. 

These injuries may result in significant long-term medical issues and can include:

• Broken bones
• Facial fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries

Often, an attorney can help bicycle accident victims recover from their medical bills and other losses they sustain as a result of an accident. Discussing your case with an attorney is the best way to find out if you may be able to bring a legal claim against the person or party responsible for your accident.

Nighttime Riding Can be Made Safer

One of the greatest risks to bicyclists who ride at night is motorists who are unable to see them. As a result, increasing your visibility is one of the most effective things you can do to minimize your risk of being involved in an accident when riding at night. 

Some of the steps that you can take to increase your visibility to motorists include:

• Wearing retro-reflective clothing
• Place reflectors on the front, back, and on both wheels of your bike
• Choosing a safe route
• Add lights to the front and back of your bike. This is actually required by Georgia law when riding at night

Contact an Experienced Attorney from Shane Smith Law for a Free Consultation

Accidents can happen even under the best of circumstances and are important for anyone injured in a bicycle accident to ensure his or her rights are protected by retaining a lawyer. If you have been injured in a nighttime bicycle accident you may be eligible for significant compensation for your medical expenses and other losses. 

To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, call Shane Smith Law today at (980) 246-2656 or fill out our online form.