How to Avoid a Collision with a Bicycle

Avoiding a collision with a bicycle can be more difficult than it seems. Because they are smaller and slower, it is less likely that you will see them. Some common bicycle and vehicle scenarios may be helpful when you want to avoid a collision.

Parked Cars on the Side of the Road

When you are parked on the side of the road, be careful when opening your car door. It is easy for a bicyclist to run into you suddenly. Check your mirrors and over your shoulder before exiting your vehicle.

Backing Out of a Driveway

You usually watch for other vehicles as you back out of your driveway. You should also make a point of taking an extra look for bicyclists. Because they are moving at slower speeds, you make have to check twice before pulling into the road.

Left Turning Lane Vigilance

A collision that may happen when you are making a left turn is when you are opposite the cyclist. Because your traffic signal is green, you may not notice a bicycle riding across the lane you are turning in to. Even though the rider should have hopped off of their bike and walked it across the intersection, it is still your responsibility to be observant.

Right Turn Only Lanes

In Florida, bike lanes are visible on the right side of the road. The opposite is true for a right turn only lanes at intersections. When making a right turn, be aware that bicyclists will be on your left if they are going straight. Avoid a collision by looking over your shoulder when moving into a turn only lane.

For more information on car and bicycle safety, contact Runnels Insurance in Brandon, Florida. They are an independent insurance agency that handles new and existing policies for auto, home, flood, and other types of insurance options.

Renter’s Guide To Improvements: Closet Edition

Many renters are focused on closet space. Sometimes, you cannot find the space you need or the design you have been looking for. There are ways, though, that you can make the most of a small closet so you can make it more like what you are looking for. No rental is perfect but if you can make the most of what you have, you are succeeding. Follow these tips to get the most out of the space. 

  • Remove the shelves if they do not work for you. You can easily remove these and put them back when you leave. They are generally just screwed into the wall. This makes it an easy transition both when you move in and when you move out. 
  • Add more shelves if needed. You can get bracket mounted shelves at any local hardware store. Once you are ready to move out, you will just need to remove them and spackle the walls. 
  • Remove the door. If you need more room, one easy way to do this is to remove the closet door. You can always put it back before you move out and this is as easy as removing the door from the hinges. 
  • If the space simply does not work for a closet, rethink it. You may be able to use it as a little desk area. Think outside the box and make sure you get the most out of the space, even if you do not use it as a closet. 

If you are a renter, you should have rental insurance to make sure all of your belongings are protected. Your landlord’s insurance does not cover your belongings. Contact Runnels Insurance serving Brandon, FL to explore your options and choose an insurance plan that is right for you.