Child Bicycle Safety: How Parents Can Help Reduce Baltimore Bike Accident Risks
After a long winter, warmer spring and summer weather means children are back out at play, and one of their favorite activities is riding bikes. It’s a great way for children to stay active and build independence, but Baltimore parents need to be aware of the risks.
Bicycle accidents in Baltimore happen regularly, and children are among the most common victims. Our experienced Maryland bicycle accident lawyers offer tips for parents to help keep young riders safe.
Preventing Baltimore Bike Accidents: Essential Gear and Safe Habits for Young Cyclists
According to the Maryland Highway Safety Office, more than 800 people are injured due to bicycle accidents throughout the state each year. Sadly, the most common victims are children.
Bicycle accident injuries often result from reckless drivers, but parents play a critical role in establishing safe habits before their child ever leaves the driveway. Take these steps:
- Make sure your child has a properly sized helmet, required by Maryland law for cyclists under 16.
- Insist on closed-toe shoes and long pants, along with elbow and knee pads to reduce the risk of injury.
- Make sure the bicycle fits your child correctly, as a bike that is too large makes it harder to control and increases the risk of collisions.
- Equip your child’s bike with front and rear lights and reflectors to increase visibility.
Wearing light, bright clothing also helps and makes it easier for drivers to see young cyclists at intersections and on residential streets.
Teaching Baltimore Children To Ride Safely Around Traffic
Appropriate clothing, safety gear, and a proper bike fit are essential, but teaching children to navigate traffic safely is equally important. The Maryland Department of Transportation recommends that bike riders of all ages be aware of the risks and follow these practical tips to protect themselves:
- Always look left, right, and left again before crossing streets.
- Never assume a driver can see you or will stop.
- Use caution near driveways and parking lot entrances where drivers pulling in or out may not expect a cyclist.
- Walk the bike across busy intersections rather than riding through, particularly at high-traffic crossings near Baltimore schools and parks.
- Avoid headphones, handheld devices, and other distractions while cycling, which reduce a young rider’s ability to hear approaching vehicles and react in time.
If your child is involved in a bicycle accident, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Bike accident injuries in Baltimore have the potential to be devastating, particularly in cases involving children. To hold at-fault drivers accountable, get professional legal help right away.
Request a Consultation Today With Our Experienced Baltimore Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. Bicycle accidents in Baltimore, particularly those involving children, have the potential to cause devastating injuries. At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping Baltimore families hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact our experienced Baltimore bicycle accident lawyers today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
zerodeathsmd.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/FFY22_Bicycle_ProgramAreaBrief-Data_Final.pdf
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/Index.aspx?pageid=599
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/index.aspx?PageId=357
