Cycling is seen as one of the means of transportation and also a way of staying fit and touring the outside world. However, ensuring safety while cycling is crucial, because it can lead to tragic consequences if neglected.
What led to this choice of topic was the incident that happened yesterday evening in my vicinity, a young boy lost his life while cycling in an expressway, he was trying to dodge the car that was over speeding from behind leading him off the road to smash his head on a tree making him unconscious and bleeding to death.
From the incident, I noticed three causes of his death:
- Cycling in the lane of heavy vehicles
- Not wearing safety devices
- No side mirrors like motorcycles so as to know when a vehicle comes from behind.
So, because of this incident, I want to share a few safety devices that is expected of every cyclist:
Helmet:
One of the most crucial safety devices for cyclists is the helmet. Just like the above incident, wearing the helmet would have safeguarded against severe injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Generally, studies have shown that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury and even save lives.
Reflective Gear:
During night rides, visibility is necessary to avoid accidents, especially during low-light conditions. Reflective clothing and accessories make cyclists more visible to motorists, reducing collisions of each other.
Lights:
Aside from the reflective gears, front and rear lights enhance visibility and signal intentions to other road users. They are particularly needed when cycling in dimly lit areas or during inclement weather.
Side Mirrors:
While not yet standard equipment on bicycles, side mirrors could greatly enhance cyclists' awareness of their surroundings, similar to how they benefit motorcyclists. By providing a broader field of view, side mirrors could help cyclists detect vehicles approaching from behind, reducing the risk of accidents. Just as the above-mentioned incident, the boy tried turning back to see what's coming behind, which led to the serious damage.
Furthermore, it is important every cyclist stays in its lane when riding instead of being on the heavy vehicle's lane. Overtaking a vehicle is also very risky for a cyclist, so it is best you avoid the situation.
Advocating for Safer Cycling Practices
In light of the tragic incident in my community and countless others worldwide, it's evident that promoting safer cycling practices is imperative.
Promote Helmet Use: Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives should emphasize the importance of wearing helmets while cycling, both for adults and children.
Legislation and Enforcement: Implementing and enforcing laws that mandate helmet use and other safety measures can encourage compliance and prevent avoidable tragedies.
Innovation in Bicycle Design: Manufacturers should explore integrating safety features like side mirrors into bicycle designs, prioritizing the well-being of riders.
Conclusion
Cycling offers numerous benefits, but safety must always be a top priority. The tragic loss of life in my community serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of wearing safety devices, particularly helmets, while cycling. Additionally, advocating for innovations such as side mirrors on bicycles can further enhance cyclists' safety and prevent accidents. By promoting awareness, and embracing technological advancements, we can create a safer environment for cyclists and prevent tragedies.
