Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring a remote trail, cycling can be a beautiful and exhilarating experience for Alaska residents and visitors. However, biking does come with some risks. Here’s some information from a personal injury lawyer about how you and your loved ones can stay safe on the roads and trails throughout The Last Frontier.

How to Stay Safe When Biking in Alaska

1. Wear Protective Gear

Always put on a helmet and protective eye glasses before getting on your bike.  A significant number of cycling injuries occur in low-speed mishaps.  Consult with staff at a bike shop or do your own research to find the type of helmet that incorporates the best technology available to protect you from a head injury.  Get help from bike shop staff to select the proper size of helmet that will fit you properly to ensure the helmet functions as intended.   Replace your helmet after any crash that results in the helmet being impacted.  If you are unsure whether your helmet needs to be replaced after an impact, take it to a bike shop for inspection.  If you will be riding an offroad route that includes fast downhill sections, consider wearing sturdy goggles, knee pads, long pants, and gloves, in addition to a helmet. 

2. Enhance Visibility

Bicyclists are much harder to see than other vehicles simply because of their smaller size relative to automobiles. If riding on the road or on a trail system where you may encounter motorized traffic, wear bright colors.  If riding in dark conditions, be sure to equip your bike with a bright headlight and a flashing red taillight.  It is also important to wear attire that has reflective features.

3. Use Traffic Etiquette

When riding on the roadway, remember to ride on the far right side of the lane of travel and to obey all traffic control devices or signs, just as if you were traveling in a car.  Since bicycles do not have turn signals, be sure to use proper hand signals when riding on the road among automobiles.  

Even with these tips, some accidents are unavoidable. If you are injured while riding a bike due to someone else's actions or negligence, turn to the personal injury lawyers at Burglin & Doxey, P.C. of Fairbanks, AK. Dave Burglin and Jason Doxey offer attentive, discreet, reliable counsel to every client. Together they have over 40 years of experience serving Alaska residents. To learn more about their range of practice areas, visit the website. Call (907) 456-4020 to schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer.

These articles are for discussion purposes only. Please contact the firm if you’re seeking legal advice.