If you have been following the news lately, the polar vortex has apparently returned two months early. Indeed, the weather patterns that drive people from the Midwest and Northeast to our region have come yet again. Essentially the wind chills, ice and snow that are commonly associated with January are back, even though we haven’t reached Thanksgiving.
But this is why we love the valley. We don’t have to worry about the cold and snow, unless we want to drive to it. So those of us who ride bicycles can continue to do so.
With that said, it is important that bike riders continue to be vigilant in watching out for hazards; specifically cars. According to recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Administration, the number of people killed in car-bicycle accidents has increased since 2010. Because of this, we offer the following tips so that accidents can be avoided.
Obey the rules of the road – Just like riders and cars must share the road, both have to follow the rules as it pertains to signaling turns and following the flow of traffic.
Wear a helmet – Arguably, the single most effective way to survive an accident is to wear a helmet. There are a number of helmets offered that provide rear view mirrors that allow riders to check their blindsides so that they can avoid turning into traffic.
Don’t drink and ride – This may seem obvious, but an increasing number of riders killed in accidents had blood alcohol levels that were over the legal limit in Arizona (.08).