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Safety measures can save a New Mexico bicyclist from crashes

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2015 | Uncategorized |

New Mexico residents are aware that bicycle riding has many benefits; and many prefer using a bicycle as their primary means of transport. In addition to being pollution-free and less expensive, bicycle riding also keeps riders in shape.

In the event of a bike accident, the lack of safety features in a bicycle as compared to a car or other motor vehicle puts a bicycle rider at risk of receiving serious injuries when an accident occurs. This could result in permanent disability or even death. Bicycle crashes are not uncommon on roads and a bicyclist needs to be careful while riding a bike.

New Mexico laws give a bicyclist the same rights and responsibilities as any auto driver. As such, a bicyclist should think just like any other driver operating a vehicle on road. Like motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists also must follow traffic laws and operate responsibly. Although it is advisable for all bicycle riders to wear bicycle helmets for their own safety under the New Mexico laws, it is a requirement for cyclists under 18 years of age to wear a bicycle helmet.

Before riding a bicycle, one should make certain the bike is in good working order. A bicyclist, while traveling on road, should ride on the right side of the road just like driving a car and should ride as far to the right of the driving lane as practicable. While changing lane or making a turn, a bicyclist must give signal making his or her intent clear to other drivers on the road. While riding a bicycle in night, a bicyclist must be visible and should use an appropriate headlight or rear reflector and also wear light colored clothing if possible.

If a bicyclist is injured in a bicycle accident, his or her family can seek compensation from a negligent party or parties. Since a bicycle compensation case involves many legalities, one may wish to understand their rights, option and legal remedies available to them.

Source: DoT.State.NM.us, “Tips for Safe Bicycle Riding,” Accessed on Jan. 13, 2015

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