Cycling is becoming increasingly popular among people for a variety of reasons, from achieving daily fitness goals to decreasing personal carbon footprints. It is a convenient and affordable type of transport, as well as an enjoyable physical activity that allows you to spend more time outdoors. Apart from the clear benefits for your physical health, cycling also improves mental well-being. However, injuries can still occur, both as a result of accidents and due to inadequate cycling practices as well. Although the risks are not astronomical, it is always to be safe rather than sorry. Here are some of the main hazards you should be mindful of and the most efficient ways to minimise their risks. 

Situational awareness 

Situational awareness is a concept referring to the understanding of your environment and its elements. It means that you are attentive and can keep up with the changes and shifts in your surroundings so that your decision-making process can be more efficient and you can respond to situations in an adequate manner. This factor is best exemplified by the necessity of obeying road rules when cycling. Being mindful of safety while on the road protects both your safety and that of drivers and pedestrians. However, sometimes you can be injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, refusal to follow the standard rules, or aggressive driving practices. 

In this case, you should read a How To Sue Guide that can explain the process of making a personal injury claim. You will need to provide proof of the health and financial damage you’ve sustained as a result of the incident. Among the fundamental rules you should always follow as a cyclist, always being on the right side of the road is at the very top. Use hand signalling to make your intentions clearer and make sure your riding patterns are always predictable. Don’t make any rash decisions, and don’t lose your cool. If you enjoy having company when cycling, make sure you don’t ride two abreast on multi-lane roads. 

Ideally, you should always use a bike line if it’s available, and when you’re on shared paths where people might be walking as well, you should always use your belt to alert them of your presence. 

Safety equipment 

As with any other sport out there, your safety is largely dependent on the equipment you’re wearing. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that specialised safety equipment is some sort of fad and doesn’t offer any protection. If you become the victim of a severe accident, the equipment could save your life. The helmet is the quintessential protective gear that guards your head. Injuries occurring in this area, as well as those affecting your neck, can have disastrous consequences for your health and well-being, with the more extreme cases leading to lifelong disability. 

Maximising your visibility is crucial. One of the simplest things you can do in this regard is to wear brightly coloured clothing that will make you much easier to spot. If you’re dressed in neutral or dark hues, you are more difficult to see, and some motorists can endanger your safety. Having lights fitted to your bike to the front and the back should be a feature for all conditions. Reflective garments or reflectors that can be adjusted to the back of your shoes can also provide you with some extra visibility if you have to cycle at night time or in weather conditions that are less than ideal. The lights must be clearly visible from 200 metres away, while the ideal range for reflectors is around 50 metres to safeguard your safety.  

Additional concerns 

While listening to music when cycling can sound like the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon, this scenario can actually put you in serious jeopardy. Don’t wear headphones while on your bicycle, as you won’t hear what’s going on around you and won’t be able to react quickly in case you need to. Delayed responses can lead to painful injuries. Make sure to have your bike checked regularly to make sure that it is still in a good state. How often you’ll have to do this will depend on the frequency of your riding trips. 

If you use your bike daily and for extended periods of time, the best option is to inspect it once a week. During these inspections, the tyres, gears, bolts, and chains should be checked for any possible signs of damage or wear. If you notice something suspicious or want a more thorough check-up, you can always take the bicycle to your local bike shop. Never hop in the seat if you believe something is wrong since it can increase your likelihood of becoming involved in an accident and ending up seriously wounded. 

Hard braking is a common concern when discussing accident prevention. The main issue with this braking style is the possibility of the brakes locking and the rider being propelled over the handlebars. The safest way to brake smoothly is to use the front and the back brakes simultaneously to avoid toppling over. You should always take extra precautions when it comes to car drivers. Be absolutely sure that they have spotted you before taking turns or in intersections. Although you may believe they saw you, it is always better to be extra careful and make eye contact with the drivers to be extra sure. 

Cycling injuries 

Cycling is both relaxing and demanding at the same time, as it puts all your muscles to work. Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among riders, but it can be remedied by keeping your back straight and getting proper rest if you feel like you’ve pushed your limits a little farther after a trip. Numb toes can be prevented by adjusting your shoes or their straps so your feet aren’t squashed. Change hand positions and pay attention to how you’re gripping the handlebars to avoid hand and shoulder injuries. Knee injuries typically happen as a result of joint overuse, but building up your strength through specific training routines and adjusting your saddle so that it is neither too low nor too high can help tremendously. 

Cycling is a rewarding sport that keeps you in shape and allows you to spend more time outside, enjoying the fresh air and sunlight. But remember that to properly enjoy it, you must always be aware of the importance of safety.