Prioritize Your Safety on California Roads
Pedestrians and bicyclists are some of the most high-risk groups for collisions in California, and with summer finally upon us, more will be out and about on any given day. Although most defensive driving courses encourage motorists to look out for those on two wheels or walking, pedestrians and cyclists should also know how to best keep themselves safe.
To better prepare for more outdoor gatherings this year, here are 10 tips to keep in mind.
5 Tips for Pedestrians
In their most recent data, the
California Office of Traffic Safety reported that nearly 900 pedestrians were killed and more than 14,000 were injured in 2018 alone. This is a 26% increase over four years.
Even with California cities aiming to become more
pedestrian-friendly, these statistics highlight a greater need for improvement in roadway safety. While the state works to make these changes, pedestrians can keep these five tips in mind:
- No matter where you are walking (roadside or in a crosswalk), stay attentive and scan for cars.
- Increase visibility by wearing brightly colored clothing or reflective material.
- Pause before crossing at an intersection with a pedestrian walk signal to accommodate for cars turning or potentially running a red light.
- Make eye contact with any oncoming drivers whenever in the roadway.
- Only cross in designated or well-lit areas, not between cars, bushes, or other obstructing objects.
These tips do not just apply to pedestrians—they can also be extremely beneficial to cyclists in busy areas.
5 Tips for Cyclists
As California bicycle fatality rates increased to a
25-year high in 2018, the push for improved safety is as vital as ever. According to the
California Vehicle Code (CVC), many laws are in place to improve bicycle safety, aside from just wearing a helmet. To help you be your safest when biking on the roadway, here are five CVC-approved tips:
- Wear light clothing and equip your bike with reflectors to increase visibility at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings and scan for other vehicles on the road.
- Before each ride, check the brakes, chains, tires, and handlebars to ensure they’re secure and working correctly.
- Plan routes ahead of time to account for traffic volume, speed limits, and construction.
- Don’t drink and bike—driving under the influence laws still apply.
In addition to these five tips, don’t forget to brush up on your safety code knowledge for operating and equipping your bike.
How a California Accident Attorney Can Help
During this sunny season, both pedestrians and bicyclists need to know that they have rights if involved in a collision. If you or a loved one sustain an injury on California roads, focus on your recovery and leave the rest to
Delfino Green & Green.
Our skilled attorneys have over 30 years of experience and will work to help you achieve the maximum compensation for your case. Call
415-442-4646 or
fill out the form on our website to get in touch with a member of our team.
