Every time you get on a bike, you are exposed. No airbags. No metal frame. Just you, the road and whatever comes at you.
Make no mistake: preparation is not a bonus; it is survival. Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor when the road doesn’t play nice.
Gear up before you go
The road remains indifferent to proximity or destination — accidents can occur without warning, regardless of how routine the ride may seem. When they do, your protective gear serves as your first and often only line of defense against serious injury.
Start with a properly fitted, CPSC-certified helmet — the most critical piece of protective gear for cyclists. Supplement this with high-quality gloves for better grip and protection, supportive shoes and clear or tinted glasses to shield your eyes from debris and sun glare.
Make yourself seen
One of the greatest dangers to cyclists is a driver who simply doesn’t see you — and it happens more often than you’d think.
To mitigate the chances of a bike crash, use reflective clothing, stay out of blind spots and make sure other drivers can see you.
Check the weather and road conditions
Weather patterns can shift unexpectedly, making riding hazardous. Rain, strong winds or bumpy surfaces like loose gravel significantly increase the chances of a bike crash.
Always consult the forecast and evaluate road conditions before departure. If conditions present undue risk, postponing your ride may very well be the most prudent decision — regardless of your skill or experience.
Inspect your bike before each ride
Personal protective gear is critical, but bike readiness is equally non-negotiable.
Conduct a thorough pre-ride inspection: check your tires for wear and proper inflation, confirm the functionality of your brakes, ensure your chain is clean and well-lubricated and test your front and rear lights if you’ll be riding in low visibility.
These simple checks require only a few minutes but can prevent mechanical failures that no amount of riding skill or safety gear can compensate for.
Ride clearheaded
Riding while impaired, whether by alcohol, drugs or both, isn’t just dangerous — it may also be illegal, depending on where you are. Even if local laws are unclear, riding under the influence puts you and those around you at serious risk.
Impairment also extends beyond substances; emotional distress, distraction and exhaustion can be just as dangerous. If your focus or judgment feels compromised, the wisest course of action is to wait.
If a collision happens
Even the most vigilant cyclists remain vulnerable to negligent drivers, hazardous roadway conditions and unforeseeable circumstances.
If you are involved in a bike crash:
- Prioritize medical attention: Certain injuries may not present symptoms immediately yet can escalate if left untreated.
- Notify law enforcement and file an accident report: Proper documentation is critical, particularly if legal proceedings or claims become necessary.
- Preserve evidence: Photograph the scene, your bike and any visible injuries. Obtain contact details from witnesses.
- Consider speaking to a lawyer: They can help you navigate your next steps, especially if another party is involved.
Although the aftermath of a serious crash can be disorienting, the actions you take can determine the outcome of your claim, if any.
Because the road won’t be kind
You can ride responsibly, take every precaution and still find yourself at the mercy of someone else’s carelessness.
If you have sustained injuries in a bike crash, know that you are not required to navigate the aftermath alone. Before you begin to worry about the next steps, talk to someone who knows how to fight for cyclists like you.
The last thing you need, on top of your injuries, is to battle the system by yourself.
