Kirk Bernard

Washington State has been named the nation’s number one “Bicycle Friendly States” by the League of American Bicyclists for the second year in the row. That still hasn’t prevented bicyclists on our state’s roadways from getting seriously injured as a result of collisions that can be easily prevented. Bicycles are legally considered “vehicles” on Washington’s roadways. What that means is that bicyclists must obey the rules of the road just like drivers of any other vehicle. Bicyclists must take steps to make sure that they are aware of what’s going on around them and avoid common errors that could have devastating consequences:

1. Obey all traffic signs and signals. Follow the rules of the road.
2. Never ride against traffic. Please remember that motorists are not looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road.
3. Don’t pass a vehicle on the right. Follow lane markings to make left or right turns.
4. Look over your shoulder. This is a good practice for bicyclists and must be done without losing balance or swerving. Some bicyclists use rear-view mirrors.
5. Wear a helmet always. It could save your life. Never wear headphones or do anything else that can take your attention away from the road. Keep your hands ready to brake.
6. Use hand signals to tell motorists and pedestrians what you are going to do.
7. Always make eye contact with drivers. It’s best to assume that drivers don’t see you until you make sure that they do.
8. Watch out for roadway hazards such as grates, gravel, ice or debris. It’s always safe to cross railroad tracks at right angles.
9. If it’s overcast or dark, use lights. Washington law requires bicyclists to use a white headlight visible from at least 500 feet ahead as well as a rear reflector visible from up to 300 feet from behind.
10. Maintain your bike well. Check your bike’s brakes and tires regularly.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Washington, please contact the experienced Seattle personal injury attorneys with The Bernard Law Group at 1-800-418-8282 or info@bernardlawgroup.com for a FREE comprehensive and confidential consultation. We can also send you our FREE brochure, which has useful educational information to help you better understand your legal rights and options. Get in touch with Kirk Bernard and his skilled legal team today.