Safety should always be a top priority for all cyclists, but many regularly find themselves in potentially dangerous situations. This is especially true for electric bike users with more power and range with their vehicle’s motor.
Whether trying to navigate heavy traffic or sharing the road with drivers who aren’t paying attention, countless potential hazards can put e-bike riders at risk of an accident.
Top Tips for Avoiding Accidents
To avoid these dangers and prevent experiencing an unpleasant or painful bicycle accident, it is essential to exercise caution whenever you are riding your e-bike.
Be Visible
To avoid getting hit by a car, you must ensure drivers can see you. So all e-bike users must be highly visible to other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. There are numerous ways for e-bike riders to make themselves more visible on the road. For example, many riders choose e-bike accessories like brightly colored clothing or reflective gear that help them stand out amidst the sea of cars and other cyclists. Additionally, cyclists should signal their turns and check blind spots with hand signals to prevent collisions with other vehicles.
Wear A Helmet
Cycling comes with its own set of unique risks. Without the right safety gear, you risk serious injuries if you get involved in an accident. One of the most important safety gear when riding your e-bike is a helmet, which protects your head from serious impact if you collide with a hard object or another cyclist. Additionally, helmets have been shown to help reduce concussion symptoms and other brain injuries following an impact, making them essential for anyone who cycles regularly.
Most states have no law mandating that adults wear helmets while cycling, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. A helmet could save your life if you’re involved in an accident. So make sure the helmet you choose fits properly and is highly rated for cycling.
Avoid Arterial Roads
Arterial roads are those with heavy traffic flow and fast-moving traffic. They’re not generally conducive to safe cycling as they tend to have high speeds and lots of competing traffic, creating a dangerous environment for e-bike users. So, if you can help it, stick to side streets and bike paths with fewer cars and lower speed limits.
For those situations when you must use an arterial road, keep an eye out for potential dangers and always follow all traffic laws. If you do find yourself in an accident with a car, contact experienced bike crash lawyers to help you navigate the legal process and pursue full compensation for your injuries.
Ride Your E-Bike More Safely
Even if you follow the above tips, there’s no guarantee that you won’t get hit by a car or be involved in an incident on a road or trail. The best way to protect yourself is always to assume drivers can’t see you and ride accordingly. Ride defensively and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.
Get more insight into effective road and trail usage in our guide to how to ride an electric bike safely and how to ride e-bikes safely in the rain.
