As the season gets warmer, people are spending more time outdoors. Activities such as walking, jogging, rollerblading, kayaking, golfing, and fishing are common outdoor pastimes enjoyed by men and women of all ages and ethnicities. One of the most popular outdoor activities for people of all ages is bicycling.
As one of the oldest amusements, bicycling has taken on many new forms and now includes a wide range of bicycles, both manual and motorized. Regardless of the type of bike you prefer to ride, make sure you stay safe at all times. Bicyclists are especially vulnerable on the roadways and often become victims of personal injury. That is why it is important to know and practice bicycle safety, and teach it to your loved ones.
One way to make sure you are protected on your bike is to always carry a safety kit. Bicycle safety kits can also come in many forms. You can build your own by choosing the general security items and then adding any additional items you think you might need. You can also buy pre-assembled kits at your local bike shop or sporting goods store. Read on to learn how to get started with your bike safety kit.
Here’s what to include in your kit:
Helmet – Wearing a helmet is bike safety 101, regardless of your age. It is the first piece of safety equipment to consider, and in many states it is the law to wear one. Make sure you choose a quality helmet that is the right size and fit.
reflectors- Having reflectors is not only important for biking at night, it is also a good idea to have reflectors on cloudy, foggy or overcast days. Reflectors can be worn as cummerbunds and vests, or can be attached to the bike at the front and rear. They can be solar-powered or battery-powered, and they come in different shapes, sizes, wattages, and settings.
Instruments – There are several tools you can add to your kit to ensure safer and easier cycling in the event of an incident. The collection of bike tools you choose to add to your kit will largely depend on your level of biking skill and the type of biking you’ll be doing. Standard tools include a puncture repair kit, tire pump, and pocket tool kit, while more advanced tools may include a spoke wrench, screwdriver, and chain tools.
Water- Riding a bike exerts energy and burns calories, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Always carry a bottle or thermos of water with you when you ride.
If you are injured while riding a bicycle as a result of someone else’s negligence, it is important that you contact a licensed personal injury attorney to discuss your rights to recover compensation for your damages and losses. Be sure to act fast before the statutes of limitations run out.
