While many of us associate biking with childhood memories, it's important to remember that cycling is not just for kids. As adults, we tend to overlook the benefits that cycling can offer, not only for our health and community, but also for the environment. With Earth Day fast approaching on April 22, it is a great time to recognize the positive impact that cycling can make on our planet.
At Hupy and Abraham, we want to share some of the reasons why cycling can improve our lives and the world around us.
Benefits For the Environment:
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Bicycles use no fuel, which make them sustainable.
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Bicycles use less energy than motor vehicles.
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Bicycles do not require toxic batteries or motor oil.
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Bicycles save individuals and communities money on health care, insurance, fuel and other environmental costs.
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Bicycles can also save time in urban areas where traffic delays are prone to happening, as well as time on finding parking.
For example, if 20% of Milwaukee commuters biked to work, it would save 40,718 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. That is a value of $821,282, according to a 2010 study.
By bicycling to work, you can significantly reduce the amount of pollution generated, and is less stressful than sitting in traffic. Additionally, shorter car trips waste more fuel and create more pollutants than longer car trips, so bicycling to the store or on small errands will save you gas, money and reduce the amount of day-to-day traffic.
Why Not Bike?
Many people cite their reason for not biking is that they often do not feel safe, which is not unfounded. Bicycle accidents often occur in busy cities that lack bicycle lanes and other cycle-friendly spaces. However, when more members of a community speak up and make it clear they would like to make cycling a larger part of the city’s infrastructure, those communities become healthier, safer and more pedestrian-friendly!
Safety Tips to Keep You Safe:
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Always ride in a straight line.
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Watch for car doors opening.
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Look and signal before turning.
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Stay alert when wearing headphones that obstruct your hearing.
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Use a helmet.
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Wear bright colored, reflective clothing
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Equip your bike with reflectors and lights when riding at night.
If you're interested in learning more about cycling or want to explore additional resources, we encourage you to visit our Facebook page for up-to-date information. At Hupy and Abraham, we're committed to promoting cycling and helping people stay safe while doing so.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident?
At Hupy and Abraham, we are committed to reducing preventable accidents. Unfortunately, no matter how safe you try to be, accidents do happen. In the event you or a loved one is injured on a bicycle due to the dangerous or negligent actions of another, Hupy and Abraham is here to help. Contact us at 800-800-5678 for a free consultation or start a live chat any time at Hupy.com.
