Biking along the rural roads of Utah can be a beautiful experience, with fresh air, exercise, and natural vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. In fact, the state of Utah is a popular destination for those embarking on bike tours, as it features a rich selection of trails and remote roads perfect for bikers of every level.
But as every biker knows, a rural bike trip comes with its own set of risks, and the best way to offset these risks is proper preparation. And if you end up being hurt by a negligent driver or something goes terribly wrong, Great West Injury Law has your back. Our experienced bike accident attorneys know that even the most prepared bikers are injured from time to time.
Read on to learn tips for a safe rural bike trip, and how we can help.
Before Your Trip
Here are some tips to keep in mind while planning your next rural bike trip:
- Plan your route: Before setting out on your bike trip, it’s important to plan your route. Avoid busy roads and highways; opt for quieter roads with less traffic. Research the area ahead of time to identify any potential hazards such as steep inclines, sharp turns, or narrow bridges. Make sure you have a map or GPS device with you to help guide you if you get lost. If you’re biking along a trail, research its difficulty level and make sure you’re ready for what it has in store.
- Wear protective gear: Wearing protective gear, such as a helmet, is crucial for your safety while biking. A helmet can help reduce the risk of head injury in the event of an accident. It’s also recommended to wear reflective clothing to increase your visibility to drivers, especially when biking in low-light conditions.
- Make contingency plans: Biking in rural areas limits your options for responding to hazardous weather. Make sure to plan ahead for situations like this and let someone close to you know where you plan to be in and when. It’s better to be overprepared than underprepared.
- Have the right bike: Trail bikes, road bikes, and city bikes are all different, and each can be equipped with tires for certain situations and terrains.
- Keep your bike in good condition: Check the brakes, tires, and gears to ensure they’re functioning properly. Make sure the bike is properly adjusted to fit you, so you’re comfortable and in control.
- Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure you have a basic first-aid kit with you, as well as tools to fix a flat tire or make other repairs if necessary. It’s also a good idea to bring a charged cell phone with you in case of an emergency.
During Your Trip
Of course, preparation is only part of the battle. Here are some tips to keep in mind while you’re out enjoying the stretches of Utah’s rural roads:
- Stay visible: Use lights on your bike to increase your visibility, especially when biking in low-light conditions. Consider wearing brightly colored clothing or attaching reflective gear to your bike to make it more noticeable.
- Follow traffic laws: Always ride in the same direction as traffic, use hand signals to indicate turns, and obey traffic signals and signs. Avoid weaving in and out of traffic, and always give yourself plenty of space between you and other vehicles.
- Stay alert: Especially in rural areas where there may be unexpected hazards such as loose gravel, potholes, or livestock, stay alert and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary. In rural areas, keep an eye out for dangerous wildlife, too, like mountain lions and bears, and avoid them at all costs.
- Hydrate: Staying hydrated is extremely important, especially when biking in hot weather. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you and take frequent breaks to drink and rest.
Great West Injury Law Has Your Back
Remember that even with the best planning and preparation, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a bike accident while in a rural area, it’s important to seek medical attention and speak with an experienced bike accident attorney who understands your rights and options, like those at Great West Injury Law.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
