The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) announced the launch of its “Go Safely California” program in December 2018. The purpose of this program of this public safety awareness campaign is to reduce deaths on state roadways by educating the public of ways to travel safely, especially if you have been consuming alcohol or drugs. As part of that campaign, OTS has also mounted safety awareness efforts for pedestrians and bicyclists, pointing out that unlike many motor vehicles, neither of these groups of people have airbags to protect them.

Some of the potential safety hazards that the campaign points out include:

• Bicycling while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Walking or bicycling while distracted by cell phones, GPS, or other electronic devices
• Failing to comply with road rules for bicyclists, which may vary somewhat by city
• Wearing helmets

Other helpful safety tips for bicyclists include riding with the flow and in the same direction as traffic. Bicycles generally are considered slow-moving vehicles, so bicyclists should follow the applicable rules for slow-moving vehicles, as well. Bicyclists always should use lights from dusk to dawn to increase their visibility, as well as wear light-colored or reflective clothing. Using hand signals to let other drivers know that you are turning or stopping is always wise. In addition to paying attention to traffic flow, you should also watch out for people in parked cars who may suddenly open their doors into the roadway.

According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities increased 32% between 2008 and 2017, even as traffic fatalities as a whole decreased 0.8% during that same period. Today, as bicycle usage has skyrocketed amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the potential for bicyclist injuries and fatalities may be even greater.

Bonnici Law Group has the experience and knowledge that you need when you are filing a personal injury claim following a bicycle accident. We know how to help you create and maintain a strong claim for compensation and obtain the best outcome possible in your case. Do not hesitate to contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 or help@bonnicilawgroup.com.