Inspired by the safety hazards that threaten all modern cyclists, bike enthusiasts are finding ways to employ technology to make or a safer, and at times more audible ride.
Cyclist Jonathan Lansey used a Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of a bike horn loud enough to alert drivers of a cyclist’s presence. The horn, called “Loud Bicycle” is 112 decibels, about as loud as a car horn, according to a NY Times blog post.
In an effort to make cyclists more visible on a busy street, Philip McAleese developed See.Sense, a bike light that reacts to the riders movements and environment and reacts accordingly. The light can sense and become brighter when it is hit by approaching headlights. Another light device, called Bikelane, aims at making night riding safer. The light projects a red, LED bike path onto the road promoting a safe distance between bikes and vehicles.
Another technological advancement may result in fewer fatalities and head injuries from serious bike accidents. The Hövding is worn around the neck like a scarf but upon impact it inflates protecting the neck and head of the wearer. Initial tests performed in Sweden suggest the device may be three times safer than the standard bike helmet. Currently the Hövding is only available in Europe.
According to the League of American Bicyclists, the number of bike commuters in the 70 largest cities almost doubled from 1990 to 2012.
Author Bio
Valerie Johnson
Founder
Valerie Johnson is a North Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney dedicated to helping injured and working people across the state. A board-certified specialist since 2000, she is the Immediate Past President of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice and author of North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Law: A Practical Guide to Success at Every Stage of a Claim.
