Why Sidewalks Suck!

“Why can’t I just ride on the sidewalk and not even risk getting hit by a car?” great question. SO many reasons. Both the law and educated experience provide answers to this question. The data may not surprise you, but sidewalks suck and are much less safe than riding on the road.

Sidewalks Are Really SUCKWALKS

First, lets get a little story about sidewalks in. My 10 year old son is obsessed with roads right now. He loves the sound of the cracks as we drive over them, the overpasses and bridges, and the dedicated bike lanes we see all over our beautiful city. Almost every time I return from a ride he asks me what roads I went on. I tell him and then he gets frustrated and disappointed because it is “unfair” that I get to ride on the road and he has to ride on the sidewalk. He recently learned that term “this sucks”. He has now told me that sidewalks are really just “suck walks” because it sucks to ride on sidewalks. I busted up laughing at his newly coined word and how appropriate it really is in this context. He has no idea how right he is. I love it. I love everything about it. You’ll see him below when I took him out on a little field trip to teach him about bike lanes and sidewalks. He sat down in the bike lane (don’t worry, it was a little side street with no traffic whatsoever) and we just chatted all about the importance of bike lanes.

My 10yr Old Son & I On a Father-Son Field Trip to Discuss Bike Lanes

Why Does It Suck to Ride on a Sidewalk?

In a semi recent bicycle collision report published by the city of Phoenix in 2010, the conclusion was that approximately 70% of the bicycle collisions- the cyclist was riding on the sidewalk or had just left the sidewalk. It is legitimately more dangerous to ride on a sidewalk than on the street. For most motorists, the driveways or side streets with sidewalks on either side are points of entry or exits. In most cases the motorists is eagerly waiting for a break in traffic just to make the entry or exit that inevitably intersects the sidewalks. They don’t pay attention to pedestrians and cyclists on the sidewalk when they are looking for the momentary break in traffic. And when they finally see that break in traffic they almost floor it just to get in our out of where they are going.

That lack of attention from motorists is one major reason why it SUCKS to ride on sidewalks. But there are some legal issues here as well.

ARS 28-627 Grants Local Cities the Authority to Make Traffic Laws & It May Be Illegal in Your City!

While the State statutes do not address bicycles on sidewalks in Arizona, the local and individual cities can and often do enact their own rules for sidewalk riding. It can be legal or illegal depending on what city you are in or in some cases what part of a city you are in. For a more detailed article on this specific issue you can check our our other post: Is It Legal to Ride my Bike on the Sidewalk. The short answer is it can absolutely be illegal. For most cities however, they make an exception for smaller bicycles based on wheel size so as to not penalize children from riding on the sidewalk. Almost to encourage them to actually ride on the sidewalk instead of the road. Can you imagine little 4 year old Sally riding in the road? Probably not. I can’t either. Based on the speeds of most children and the fact they mostly ride in neighborhoods and not on busy commercial streets riddled with strip malls, sidewalks may be safer for them. I know I make my son ride on them when we ride together and we go much slower than when I roll with my racing team out in the roadways.

Sidewalk vs Bike Lane

Hands down there is a huge difference here. The bike lane is a dedicated part of the road way intended for use by bicycles. There are specific protections and traffic laws/rules relating to them intended to protect cyclists. If a cyclist was hit while legally riding in the bike lane his/her case of sharing some of the fault with the driver is much easier to win. However, when the cyclist is on the sidewalk the contributory negligence arguments get much harder to win. Often cyclists on sidewalks are riding against the flow of traffic. They often don’t have helmets. And they may be illegally on the sidewalk with an adult sized bike, or on a sidewalk where cycling is prohibited by local municipal code. Not to mention that sidewalks are shared by so many users and bike lanes are meant just for bicycles.

Final Conclusion: Avoid riding on a SUCKWALK.

Avoid riding on a suckwalk. They are far more dangerous, and present more tricky legal considerations that can harm your case. If you find yourself on a sidewalk be sure to monitor traffic from both directions as best as possible when you approach an intersection or driveway. Motorists seem to come from every angle and you don’t want to get hit. Sidewalks suck. They may be illegal and they definitely aren’t safe. Use the bike lane, or the shoulder, or even take the lane when you must.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Where You Must Legally Ride

“Do I have to ride all the way to the right? What if there is no bike lane, or zero shoulder? Where in the road is it legal to ride my bike? Where is it illegal to ride?” I get asked these questions fairly often. The short answer is “it depends.”

Why is there so much confusion among police officers, motor vehicle drivers, insurance adjusters and even some cyclists when it comes down to this question? Simple, most people are confused because they either don’t know the law and how to apply it, and/or they are blinded by bias.

“GET OFF THE F*ing ROAD” he screamed…

True story: car drives by and buzzes a cyclist within an inch or two. Yelling and screaming gout the window to get off the f*ing road. Cyclist is nearly knocked of his bike in the process and run off the road in what certainly amounts to very dangerous conditions. All because this driver couldn’t wait to pass, or pass with 3 feet of clearance between himself and the cyclist.

This is not an unfamiliar story to many of us who ride. You each likely have dozens of these experiences yourself. No doubt we can all share story after story of reckless and angry drivers who place our lives in danger out of their own impatience.

This raises the major question of where exactly are we legally obligated to be and allowed to be? They are different. Lets look at Arizona bicycle laws. Arizona is where our Bike Accident Attorneys National Network is headquartered. Arizona bicycle laws and traffic laws are very similar to many other states:

Bicycles Can Use the Roadway

Arizona Revised Statutes 28-812 expressly grants cyclists the right to use the road when it states that a person riding a bicycle is “granted all of the rights and is subject to all of the duties” that apply to a driver of a vehicle. In its simplest intent this statute says bicycles can use the roads. The very same roads that cars use. It is from this statute that the conflict between cyclist and driver seems to be born, both having equal rights and duties on the roadways. Most states have a similar statute wherein cyclists are granted express permission to use the roadways as well as express duties that for the most part mirror that of drivers.

So why then do drivers get so mad at cyclists on the roadways? Good question. Too much to address here in this article, but my personal belief is our culture in America is so different towards cycling as a means of transportation that tend to view cyclists as annoying pests instead of equals. And that culture has a lot of contributing factors, from our impatience to the sheer number of people who commute via car rather than bike, etc. and so much more.

So Where On the Roadway MUST We Ride? To the Right?

In general, the law requires a cyclist who is riding “at less than the normal speed of traffic” to ride “as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway” (ARS 28-815). This the Arizona law that many other states also have. Note that this only applies if the cyclist is riding at less than the normal speed of traffic. And even then the statute further specifies that it is “less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing.” One great example is a downhill descent. It is often much safer to take the lane when you can reach speeds comparable to that of traffic under the conditions, time, and place then existing.

Essentially, as cyclists we are REQUIRED to stay to the right. However, there are a list if exceptions: (ARS 28-815)

  • If passing another bicycle or vehicle going in the same direction as you on your bike
  • If prepping for a left turn into an intersection, private road, or driveway.
  • If reasonably necessary to avoid conditions like fixed or moving objects, parked cars, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, or other surface hazards.
  • If the lane you’re riding in is too narrow for a bicycle and vehicle to travel safely, side by side.

That last point is the one we must really clarify. When is it unsafe for a vehicle and a bicycle to ride side by side? Simple, in a state like Arizona where we have a 3 foot passing law (see ARS 28-735 and/or this article) then any lane where you can’t pass a cyclist with 3 feet then the cyclist can take the lane. Period. End of story. Or is it…?

The exception to the exception: if you are riding your bicycle slower than the normal flow of traffic on a 2 lane highway where passing is unsafe (i.e. curvy mountain roads, etc.), AND 5 or more vehicles are all waiting behind you; then you are now impeding traffic. You must pull over to let them pass you (ARS 28-704).

Final Conclusion: Ride to the Right or Take the Lane, Both Seem to Work!

Cyclists: At the end of the day you should ride to the right except when it isn’t safe or impracticable to do so. Then you should occupy the lane. When taking the lane just take the right 1/3 or 1/2. Proceed cautiously and take the lane after confirming it is safe to do so with any oncoming traffic, etc. Pay attention to curvy two lane highways or other roadways where due to the lack of a bike lane you end up causing 5 or more cars to stack up behind you. If that happens pull over and let them pass. Also be wise, be safe, don’t take the lane just because you think you can. ONLY take it when necessary for your safety.

Drivers: Be careful and cautious. The cyclists out there have the same right to use the roads that you do. Do not pass them unless you can do so with at least 3 feet of distance between you and the cyclist. At times you may see a cyclist out in the lane. This is normal. Most likely there is debris in the road that the cyclist can see more clearly than you. Avoid honking as you drive by as this can often cause a crash. Be wise, be patient and chill out. Stay off your phone and pay attention to your surroundings.

***

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

The Parking Fee Shenanigans at Usery – What Every Mountain Biker Must Know

For those of you who love the dirt and park outside your local state park but ride your bike into the park on some other connecting trails- you may get a ticket! It seems to make sense that if you find that magical parking spot outside of the state park that you somehow figured out a clean way to skirt the system. You may learn the hard way that you might just be wrong and a ticket will show up on your parked vehicle. Here’s what you need to know…

State Park Fees are for Entrance into the park not for Parking

Oddly enough some out door enthusiasts and mountain bikers believe that the fees they pay are for parking. However, typical sate park fees across the country are considered entrance fees and just include parking. Some other state parks have an additional fee for parking, but that is less common.

When you understand that an entrance fee is not a parking fee then you may start to realize why some Park Rangers are getting away with writing tickets and leaving them on your windshield. When you return it looks and feels like a parking ticket. But in reality it is a user/entrance fee of the state park.

Local Example: Usery Mountain Regional Park

Here in Arizona a local park full of decent mountain biking and hiking trails is located east of Phoenix. While it’s official name is Usery Mountain Regional Park, we all just refer to it as Usery. There is also a ton of road cyclists who make the paved climb and the decent a regular part of their weekly training.

Like many other state and regional parks, Usery has a main entrance staffed with some park rangers. They collect your entrance fee there at the gate before you’re allowed inside. Once you’re all paid up and parked, you are free to use the many hiking, biking, or horseback trails available to you. There is even some camping sites built around the park.

And like many other state and regional parks, there are numerous trails that start outside the park and lead into the park. One such famous entry point at Usery is the corner of W. McKellips and N. Crismon Road. This is an official entrance to the park, however there is no ranger station built there and you will never see a ranger standing there to collect your entrance fees. Most weekends this corner is full of vehicles parked all over the dirt section. Most of them are mountain bikers.

E. McKellips Road and N. Crismon

We actually called the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office to confirm whether or not that section of dirt on the North and East side of those two roads is privately owned rather than park property. That dirt section is in fact owned by Maricopa County. After a conversation with Maricopa County Parks and Recreation we learned that they intentionally cleared out more of that dirt section to make more parking available for users of the park. It is not an official parking lot by any stretch of the imagination but it is widely known as a great parking spot for this entrance into the park and the park itself supports parking there by their own actions.

I get reports from frustrated cyclists that they are getting tickets for parking in the dirt area which has been clearly supported for parking by the park. I always love supporting our cycling community so I start looking into it. Turns out that the park is not writing parking tickets at all but rather writing tickets for non payment of the usage fee into the park. After speaking with a ranger, we learned that they are assuming that whoever parks there is using the park. If someone is parked in that dirt area north and east of McKellips and Crismon roads without a usage permit then you will get ticketed.

The annual pass permit is only $30 and can be purchased in several areas around town but NOT at this dirt lot entrance. If you purchase and display an annual pass then you can park there without any tickets. There is also an option for a day pass of $2.00 per vehicle which you can purchase there in order to gain lawful entry into the park. The $2.00 user fee for a day pass is an “on your honor” type system where you leave your money in an envelope type deal there onsite and take a pass for your windshield. Ironically, the $2.00 fee doesn’t allow entry into the main gate. That is a much higher fee.

Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Park Rule 104

THE FOLLOWING ACTS ARE PROHIBITED IN MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS:
R-104 ENTRY, USE, OCCUPANCY, FEES

  1. Entering, using, or occupying of a Maricopa County Park or its facilities, designated trails or waterways under the supervision and control of the Department for any purpose when said parks or areas are posted against such entrance, use, occupancy or where barriers exist.
  2. Entering upon or using for any purpose, the land, water or facilities within the boundaries of Maricopa County Parks when a fee, rental, admission or other consideration has been established for such land, water or facilities, unless the person entering or using such land, water or facility has paid said fee, rental, admission or other consideration.

So 104(1) doesn’t apply to the McKellips/Crismon parking issue because there is no barrier there as intended by this rule. However, Rule104(2) does specifically states that you are not allowed to enter or use the land without paying the use/entrance fee. And in this scenario the use/entrance fee is clearly posted at the entrance with means to leave your money and claim your permit right there.

Conclusion

For sure ride your bike more! When riding in regional or state parks be sure to understand what permits/usage fees are required to gain lawful entrance. Regardless of where you park make sure you have obtained the correct permit to lawfully ride. Most state and regional parks require one. Support local, regional, federal, and state parks as much as possible by paying the appropriate fees to use them.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Bicycle Lawyer Skillz

It’s important your bicycle lawyer have some basic skillz (as they say these days). Recently when I interviewed cyclists about what they expect their lawyer to know and do I was not shocked to learn the following expectations. Proudly, I can say “I got this” to my clients.

Be A “Badass” in The Courtroom

Not surprised and I can’t agree more! Of course you want your bicycle lawyer to be able to go toe to toe with the largest and meanest of insurance companies and their army of attorneys. Would you ever really hire someone who isn’t the most incredible trial lawyer and total bad ass in the courtroom? No one wants to show up to war with an untrained, nervous, and awkward soldier. Yet law school does absolutely nothing for people who want to learn how to be incredible attorneys. How do you know your bicycle lawyer is even good as a lawyer in the court room? When is the last time they were even in trial? What do they intentionally do to keep up on their skillz?

The deep dark secret is that law school only teaches you how to think differently, not how to be a lawyer. This is a huge problem. A true Trial Attorney is a dwindling breed in a subset of our profession. I’ll be blatantly honest and bold in this following comment and I don’t mean to intentionally hurt anyone’s feelings, but on the hand I also don’t care if other lawyers find this offensive: 95% of lawyers have no business representing clients in court. Most lawyers don’t have the gumption, the skill, the tactics, the strategies, the persuasiveness, the mind, the courtroom presence, etc. to ever effectively be a trial attorney. It is a dwindling breed. When more and more cases settle there is less of a need for the development of true trial attorneys. A law degree doesn’t mean crap. A trial lawyer is more of a “reputation” thing that only trial lawyers earn over time, especially the good ones. The rest of everyone else I affectionately call Pencil Pushers. They belong behind a desk somewhere thinking about how to draft some legal document, but never should they actually go argue it in court.

Recently I attended an advanced trial skills clinic in Washington D.C. with some of the best trial attorneys currently in our country. Some of the federal judges in attendance all agreed that trial lawyers are a dwindling breed. Clinics and courses like these are not widely attended by my peers because they take too much time and cost too much money. What shame. Especially when many of those same lawyers have zero court room skillz.

My clients expect an amazing lawyer and that is what I give them. I’m all in. I seize every opportunity to be better and learn more. I take professional and personal development seriously. I have even been known to hire professional actors and theater personalities to provide training on court room verbal and physical presentation skills. “Refine your craft. Hone your skillz. Be better today than you were yesterday.” All words I live by. Besides, have you noticed the subtle (or maybe not so subtle) 3 letter designation for our national racing team: BAA Racing. Bike Accident Attorneys, or one with a little imagination could see: BAA for an entirely different meaning. A meaning our clients understand, bad ass attorneys. 😉 See our 2020 racing team jersey:

Have Integrity

Lawyers need to be brutally honest with their clients. I hate it when a client comes to me who spoke to another lawyer prior to hiring me and told me what that lawyer said. It usually involves something along the lines of a lie about the real case value or process of the case in hopes of getting that client to hire them.

Maintaining integrity with our clients is a HUGE part of our culture. We speak plainly and frequently to our clients. If we think the insurance company or opposing attorneys are jerking our clients around then we tell them. We don’t try and make it look like their low ball settlement offer is the “best you will likely get.” Instead we take the gloves off and take those jerks to court. Period.

Our clients here from us every couple of weeks at most. I insist that they get regular updates on how their case is going even if the news isn’t always good. Constant and frank communication is necessary for anyone who practices law with integrity. I prefer it and so do most human beings.

Ride Bicycles

Seriously, how many accident lawyers and personal injury lawyers do you know that actually bicycles? How in touch can they be with what you’re experiencing as a client? I know most personal injury lawyers try to get as many accident cases as possible and they treat them all the same. It is usually NEGLIGENCE and they just run a bicycle accident case through their standard negligence injury formula of:

  1. Duty
  2. Breach
  3. Causation (& proximate cause)
  4. Damages

They simply rely on their experience of classic motor vehicle style accidents: red car hits blue car, blah blah blah. They look at you as a bicycle client and say the car had a duty to drive in a safe manner and not to hit you. The car breached that duty when it made an unsafe turn through the intersection. Your client’s unsafe turn was the cause and proximate cause of my bicycle client’s injuries her car hit my client on his bicycle in that turn. My client in fact suffered physical damages to his body/person with documented medical injuries as well as property damages to his bicycle.

Looking at a bicycle law case like a car case may be legal malpractice. The typical personal injury lawyer will treat it like a car case and miss important issues that can change the outcome of the case and limit the ability of the lawyer to effectively represent the cyclist. For example, they overlook any mention of a “sun glare” in the police report and as to why the investigating officer felt it was really reasonable for any driver not to see the cyclist. Therefore no citation was issued. They over look that the cyclist wasn’t in just a shoulder but a designated bike path affording some privileges and protection. They over look the issue that the cyclist had day light lights on his bike. They don’t understand how to extrapolate the cyclist’s garmin data, and they may not even know what a garmin is. They over look the similarities and frequencies of the cyclist’s chosen route as can be demonstrated in Strava, Gamrin Connect, and other apps like map my ride, etc. that all show how the cyclist safely proceeds through that intersection hundreds of times before. They look at bicycle damages in awe not understanding what comprises a drive train or how micro cracks around a bottom bracket must be X-rayed to positively ID.

In short, they just miss too much and then accept a laughably low settlement offer because they don’t understand what they are missing. They don’t understand what they don’t know. Then like any other typical personal injury lawyer who is not a cyclist, they move onto the next car case they have and continually focus on volume rather than quality.

BAA Founder and Bicycle Litigation Lawyer Ben Dodge

Be a Human

In fact – most lawyers are total douche bags. Have you ever heard the old joke about “How many lawyer jokes actually exist? Answer: Only 3, the rest are true.” Sadly lawyers earn their horrible reputations and the jokes about our profession are less and less a joke and more often than not true statements. Another classic lawyer joke with far too much truth about the character of lawyers is: “What happens if you give a lawyer Viagra? He gets taller.” Hinting that lawyers are just jerks. They don’t truly respect their clients and often talk down to them with a big ego and considerable condescension. People wan to be treated kindly, especially when they are paying you to represent them.

I still can’t wrap my brain around the fact that many lawyers could care less about treating their clients with kindness, they only care about making the money. They never connect the fact that the client’s trusting you and their choice to keep you hired is the only way you continue to make the money. And the benefit of a referral far outweighs some ridiculous marketing strategy to get new clients.

We get it. Legals matters can be sensitive and complicated. We make sure to empathize and sympathize with our clients. We understand that our clients are people and that they would have rather not ever even needed a lawyer, but now that they do we are here for them. We have their back. We protect them. We love and appreciate them. One simple way we show this is to spontaneously send hand written cards to our clients throughout their case, and even after their case has concluded. We thank them for doing a great job in court that day, or acknowledge a birthday their child may have had, or simply tell them that we are thinking of them and hoping they have a great day. With our fatality cases we will even set up meals, assist setting up child care arrangements, and on the anniversary of the death date we will usually set up some sort of memorial or some other meaningful event to honor them. We understand the importance of being bad ass lawyers as well as being incredible humans in meeting our clients needs.

Make sure you find a bicycle lawyer with skillz. We are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

#1 Group Ride Tip

The group ride is a hallmark of cycling and a major reason many cyclists enjoy riding their bikes. Most of our routes and daily rides take the shape of some version of a group ride. It could be a handful or less of your closest friends planning something the night before on a text thread. Or it could be a regularly schedule local group ride you want to hop on.

Fact is we all LOVE group rides. They are fun, social, and often can push us to a physical effort level we may not reach on an individual ride. Whatever your reason for joining a group ride, make sure you CLEARLY UNDERSTAND the #1 One Tip. Knowing this can build trust between your fellow riders, ensure your safety and theirs, and boost confidence.

The #1 Group Ride Tip is:

Point out hazards. It sounds easy, and even lame to some people. But it is hands down the number one group ride tip out there. There are hundreds of suggestions and even unwritten group riding rules of etiquette related to group riding. There are rules on how to properly wear your sunglasses and the proper length of your socks. There are really important tips related to drafting and wheel overlapping. Not sprinting from the middle of a pack, and more. All of these are incredible and worth learning. Why is pointing out hazards the #1 tip? Because pointing out hazards can not only save you but can save the group from devastating crashes. It takes no bike handling skill. It requires no real experience. And yet it can help avoid gnarly bike crashes. ANYONE can do it. EVERYONE should do it. You can show up to your first group ride and be an expert at it simply by learning what is expected of you without having ridden much at all. Plus, some of us more experienced riders get to casual in our hazard pointing. We get too comfortable thinking “surely everyone behind me can see this…” – when in fact, rarely can your fellow cyclists see anything in front of you, or even next to you. Call it out. Point it out. Nail this down or get nailed out there.

Everyone appreciates the cyclist who points out hazards. Do your part in the group and ensure everyone sees what you are pointing out. Make sure if you see another cyclist pointing something out that you also gesture, and make your gesture big. Ensure the message is received all the way down through the group. It creates a feeling of safety, security, and trust. Be the cyclist that points out hazards. Don’t be the cyclist not paying attention, or not effectively pointing out hazards. No one wants to ride behind or with the careless cyclist. We all have been in group rides where we instantly mark the guy to avoid.

What Hazards?

There may be too many to list them all. However, anything that poses a risk to you and/or your group is a hazard. Especially when you are in the front of the group you may be able to easily avoid a bump, dip, crack, pothole, etc in the road but in the middle of back of the group it may be much more difficult to see. Hazards may include:

  1. Road defects such as cracks, potholes, uneven surfaces, dips, bumps, and more.
  2. Construction issues such as cones, metal plates, ditches, incomplete road surfaces, signs, and more.
  3. Traffic Signals and stop signs and other road signs and indicators.
  4. Traffic issues such as heavy traffic, car up ahead, car back, passing cars, parked cars, big trucks, cars at intersections.
  5. Intersections and directions such as right and or left turns, slowing, and stopping.
  6. Road debris such as branches, rocks, gravel, sand, bits of car tires, the million weird things that fall out of cars and end up in the bike lane (one time I had to avoid hitting a refrigerator!), etc and more.
  7. Dogs, runners, pedestrians, and other living things. ;-0 Seriously – so many possibilities here that must be called out. Stray dogs, or even dogs on a leash in the sidewalk that get too close to your bike lane can be a disaster.
  8. Even other cyclists or other cycling groups you come upon that are slower than you. They must be called out and provided plenty of room when passing (3′ at a minimum).

There are seriously more. This is just a quick list of the basics. Every town, and country will likely have its own unique set of “hazards” you may encounter. Point them out!

Proper Hazard Pointing

Not every cyclist points out hazards, and many don’t even do it the right way. Lets discuss how you can do it the right way. The general principle here is that small gestures are hard to see, especially when dark. Think big. Think big gestures (except for verbal cues can be over done – see below). Be certain your pointing is seen. When done right many cyclists behind you can see. When done wrong the cyclist immediately behind you may not even see you point.

If you’re thinking it is unsafe to remove your hand from your handle bar longer than a nano second then you’re wrong. This fear based mindset will only allow you to make short, quick, and small gestures. The people who crash behind you because you’re uncomfortable riding with one hand won’t appreciate your lack of bike handling skills. And yes, if you ride in a group of other cyclists and hop on “the group” ride then you better be able to demonstrate some basic bike handling skills such as pointing out hazards. Others are depending on you doing it. I have a good friend and local cyclist named Saul who only has the use of his left arm. His right arm had been damaged and is permanently in a sling. He rides his bicycle with one hand at all times. And yes, he is COMFORTABLE pointing out hazards. Not only is he comfortable, he is one of the safest cyclists in a group ride I know. What’s your excuse? Saul can do it and ride momentarily long enough without any hands on the handlebar to ensure the safety of those he rides with.

Get comfortable pointing out in big gestures. Make sure you have some basic bike handling skills nailed down. Your comfort level needs to be there before you put others at risk.

Finger Pointing & Hand Gestures

I’ll start with a personal pet peeve of mine. The cyclist who pints something out with a finger but holds his/her hand so close to their body that unless you’re on that side of the cyclist you stand no chance of seeing it. Even if you are right behind him you may not see the gesture. Especially if it is dark! It’s as if the cyclist is trying to not allow any air space between his arm and his body. While it is great that this guy at least points something out, it is a very ineffective way to do so. The guys riding directly behind him may not see him, and you know the guys in the middle and back of the group can never see such a gesture. It’s simply ineffective.

When it comes to finger pointing and hand gestures, it is best to exaggerate your movement and your pointing. Instead of keeping your arm tight along side you, point by holding your arm directly extended all the way out perpendicular to your body. Also – some motion is even more effective. Not only will the cyclists directly behind you see you, but even many of the cyclists in the back of the group may still see it. This is the proper way to point hazards regardless of where your position in the pack/group. Even if you are in the very back, you never know when someone or some other group may be coming up behind you. Plus it is good to make it a habit. Point out hazards even in the back.

Another common hand gesture worth making big is the “slowing” or “stopping” hand gesture. Make sure to emphasize this big like all hand gestures. Ensure the guys behind you see it. In this case you may also want to call it out verbally as we discuss later in this article.

Bad example. Too small a gesture. Too close to the body. Too hard to see.
Good example. Big gesture. Hand stretched out perpendicular to the body. Easy to see.

Verbal Calling Out

This is often best accompanied with literal finger pointing. The two combined are unmistakable. However, on it’s own verbal calling out may be effective when warning of an approaching car. A classic example, is someone in the back yells out “Car Back” – indicating that a car is coming from behind. This is fine. It is best when like the old telephone game when you hear it you repeat it. This way you ensure the warning makes it’s way through the peleton. “Car up”, “Slowing”, “Stopping”, “Right Turn”, “Left Turn” are all common verbal calls. All of which are also best accompanied with some hand signals as well.

Remember hand gestures are hard to see unless they are big movements. Imagine you are on a stage and performing in a theater production. How will you guarantee the people in the back of the theater can still see and understand what you are conveying? Simple, by over exaggerating. This is what actors must do, even down to their stage makeup. We ought to do it as well. Their very facial expressions and body movements must be exaggerated or they are missed and their production was ineffective at conveying the message they intended. So it is with group cycling. Again, especially in the dark.

Verbal call outs can at times be over exaggerated. One important thing to bring up here is that the temptation to scream out some word like “debris” or “hole” can sometimes scare the hell out of the other cyclists in your group. Often they can’t hear exactly what you are yelling. And if it sounds like you’re about to die and all you intended was to point out a stick next to you then you must be mindful of the risks. Don’t over yell. Screaming like your about to die is not necessarily helpful. This is the one example if how over exaggeration doesn’t fit. A calm and controlled strong tone is important. Screaming for your life is scary. Remember what it feels like when a car drives by and honks unexpectedly at you. Scary! It is the same when you hear someone over yelling. Be safe. Be smart. Be calm and controlled in all of your gestures, call outs, and in all things bike handling.

Pre Ride Call Outs

Last but not least, before a ride starts is an awesome time to draw attention to anything in the route you already know is a hazard. Many of our routes are common. If we remember some construction, or a particular hole, etc. bring it up to the group before you even start. This could likely save someone a lot of pain.

Don’t be afraid to call/point out hazards. Be comfortable with your bicycle before joining a group ride. Be the cyclist everyone can trust. Regardless of your experience as a cyclist, we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys as well. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

People Don’t Care: The Arizona Cycling Bias

I am a local Arizona cyclist and a nationally known bicycle lawyer. I have been representing cyclists since 2006. What I’m about to describe is real world experience handling countless cycling cases in our legal system. The scary truth is that people don’t care about cyclists. When I say people, I mean almost everyone. The drivers on the road. The police officers investigating bicycle accidents. The insurance companies handling bicycle accident claims. The jury in a trial listening to the cyclist’s plea for help. And the list goes on and on.

Motorists: All the Hate…

I’m constantly engaged in the representation of cyclists. And in so doing I am always encountering what seems to be the worst in people. I know not all people are bad. I know not all drivers are bad.

However, there is almost a tangible disdain between motorists and cyclists. It feels like almost every motorist believes that cyclists shouldn’t be riding their bicycles on the same roads as cars. In many cases this feeling shows up in road rage and outright anger. I have been personally run off the road a great number of times. I have seen and helped cyclists who were aggressively and intentionally hit by a motorist.

Recently in Glendale Arizona, 4 cyclists were hit by a vehicle making an unsafe left turn. (See story here: https://www.azfamily.com/traffic/several-bicyclist-struck-by-car-in-goodyear-police-say/article_508b506a-d567-11e9-b209-4b178c294596.html?fbclid=IwAR1Xnqtc7_ObmOoo51C1ZCljekb3muVgato1zMjVHnvUX-GMzTXXctzFcj4). The news reported that the driver indicated sun glare was an issue and that is why the cyclists were not seen.

In a thread relating to this article on our own Arizona Bike Accident Page, the bias between motorists and cyclists was in full force. The anger manifested by one such driver is below. I apologize for the constant swear words (and this one is even a mild one):

I believe the point this person is trying to make is cyclists need to be careful while riding. However, note the insane amount of wear words and angry tone. This person is very frustrated towards cyclists. In this particular case in Goodyear there is no fault whatsoever to the cyclists based on the facts we have. It was simply a left turn by a driver who couldn’t see, and turned anyways! These cyclists are lucky to not have been killed.

The problem is that this BIAS is real. It influences many of the drivers. The very same drivers we encounter as insurance adjusters, police officers, and members of our juries.

The Police: Bias & Pity for Drivers

This is by NO MEANS a bash on police. Our police officers put their lives on the line to protect and to serve their communities. It is an honorable profession deserving of recognition.

However, there is room for much improvement. A classic example is the same set of circumstances for the Glendale Arizona bicycle accident described above. And how the police failed to fully investigate and failed to issue any citations to the driver.

Arizona Bicycle Lawyer Case:

Bike Accident Attorneys client: J.P. was riding westbound on Baseline Arizona in the morning hours. The sun was rising in the east. The driver made a left turn without being able to see if the path of the vehicle was clear and safe. This resulted in her hitting and nearly killing J.P. Our client, J.P. suffered major injuries. J.P. was not from Arizona and was only here for a brief vacation. J.P. was unable to return home for several months while the necessary medical care was administered before J.P. was recovered enough to travel.

The driver who hit J.P. cited sun glare as a factor for not being able to see the cyclists. The police involved in the investigation agreed with the driver and felt like it would have been hard to see a cyclist given the sun glare. No mention was made that when turning the driver must make sure it is safe to do so before proceeding with the turn. No citation was issued to the driver. There easily two citations which could have easily been applied:

  1. A.R.S. 28-754(a). Unsafe left turn. A person shall not turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position on the roadway as required in section 28-751, or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left on a roadway unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety.
  2. A.R.S. 28-772. Failure to yield right of way while making a left turn. The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle that is approaching from the opposite direction and that is within the intersection or so close to the intersection as to constitute an immediate hazard.
  3. A.R.S. 28-701(A) and (D). Failure to Drive at a Reasonable and Prudent Speed through and Intersection. (A) A person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances, conditions and actual and potential hazards then existing. A person shall control the speed of a vehicle as necessary to avoid colliding with any object, person, vehicle or other conveyance on, entering or adjacent to the highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons to exercise reasonable care for the protection of others… (D) The maximum speed provided in this section is reduced to the speed that is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and with regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, including the following conditions: 1) Approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad crossing. 2) Approaching and going around a curve. 3) Approaching a hillcrest. 4) Traveling on a narrow or winding roadway. 5) A special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of weather or highway conditions.

I have had a number of cases with this exact scenario. Yet, in a car on car accident the driver who made this same exact unsafe left hand turn with sun glare would get at least one or more of the citations above. Yet, in a cycling case the police officers seem to take pity on the driver agreeing in some sort of twisted and biased way that cyclists must be so hard to see that they are excused from the law when hitting one.

I can’t help but wonder what the police will do with this most recent “sun glare” infraction up in Glendale Arizona. 4 cyclists were hit. Not seeing one cyclist is bad enough, not not seeing 4 cyclists is crazy. Will the police even cite the driver? In my experience the safe bet is bet on no, the driver will likely walk away without any real infraction.

In our Arizona bicycle accident case with J.P. we were able to successfully win the case in spite of the lack of liability determination by the investigating officers. J.P. was fully compensated and able to return to cycling making a full recovery. We continue to write police departments with training and instructions on bicycle crash investigations. We are proactive in helping the Arizona cyclists locally. We are home based here in Arizona. This is our home. These are our roads. We are here for you.

Insurance Companies: Total Ignorance

I won’t spend much time here. The bias with insurance companies is all too real. It is OBVIOUS that they make money by not spending money on your injury claims. What is only obvious to a handful of us professionals in the country who exclusively represent cyclists is that insurance companies are supremely ignorant in all things cycling related.

They are so used to auto accidents and homeowner’s claims that they are literally clueless with most cycling cases. Think about it for a minute, the whole industry is geared towards auto accidents. Not long ago my wife was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Another driver rear ended her. We were instructed to take her vehicle to a local insurance agent to work up a damages estimate. When we arrived we noticed that the address we were given contained 3 business all in the same exact building. The insurance adjust maintained a desk there, along with an auto body repair shop, and a rental car business. We literally walked in and 30 minutes later we drove away in a rental car with a promise to return in a few days to pick up our damaged car all fixed up brand new again.

BUT no where did I see a bike shop, or rental bikes available. And with the lack of these types of professionals the lack of knowledge is blatantly obvious. The insurance adjusters have no clue how to properly value a bicycle. They have no idea what it is like to ride a bicycle on the roadways with vehicles. The insurance company really has zero understanding of the local bicycle laws as well. This bias is real and it affects how they undervalue many bicycle cases.

The ignorance of the insurance industry is evident in their processing of bicycle claims. It takes an experienced bicycle accident lawyer to help with these issues. Be careful out there when dealing with an insurance adjuster. They probably have no idea what a derailleur is, or how Dura Ace is better than Ultegra. And forget it if you have Di2 – they’ll think you’re cracking a Star Wars joke.

The Jury: Never a Cyclist

As you can imagine, you will never get a cyclist on your jury. It will be a jury full of drivers. And like many other jury members, they are already angry that they got selected to be on jury duty and that their excuse for getting off was denied by the judge.

This is an uphill battle for sure. Yet, it is an issue that an experienced litigator who is also a cyclist can overcome. Most people on a jury have ridden a bicycle. Or they have a child or spouse or friend etc. who they would not want to see get hit by a giant 2,000lb vehicle. Relating with them is a skill. It is something a normal attorney will probably fail at. A cyclist and a national litigator on the other hand has the best chance at bridging this gap. That is why I get hired so often, I know intimitely what it is like to be a cyclist on these roads. I also know how to reach people on a normal human level – not on some stuff suit legal approach which most jurors meet with disdain.

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of less experienced advocate. Contact us today and we will help you.

This Bias Can be Defeated – You Can Do Something

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you can’t make any difference. This is not how this word has to be. Cyclists don’t have to be considered a plague. Drivers can actually gain more awareness. People can care more. First they must know more. People need to learn more about cyclists. We all need more protection as vulnerable users of these roadways.

Arizona needs better cycling laws. Arizona needs more advocates, more people willing to make a change. I know of several wonderful groups here locally that you can be a part of in Arizona. Each of these cycling organizations are non profits. Each of them are making real changes in our cycling community. Donate to them or sign up with them to get involved in their many many projects. Check them out:

  1. Greater Arizona Bicycle Association (GABA).
  2. Look Save A Life Arizona.
  3. Rob Dollar Foundation.

On a national note you can support and be a part of many great organizations. USA Cycling even holds a list of the most notable organizations. Some may even be close to you, the list is here: USA Cycling – Advocacy Division. Some of them include:

  1. People For Bikes
  2. League of American Bicyclists
  3. Team Share the Road
  4. World Bicycle Relief

Regardless of your experience as a cyclist, we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys as well. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

LOTOJA Must Knows

The longest one day sanctioned USAC race in America!

LOTOJA is the longest one day sanctioned USAC race in America. And it is rad! beautiful course, lots of cyclists, and of course great racing. With just over 200 miles of racing you have to be extra prepared to finish at your best. We have raced this event for years now and will happily share some of our pro tips on prepping for LOTOJA.

Lets tackle nutrition first.

Any endurance event requires well planned and properly executed nutrition strategies. Many good cyclists fall short of their LOTOJA goals because they screw up their nutrition.

Eat and drink often. It is commonly understood that you will be able to absorb 250 calories per hour (give or take). Set an alarm on your watch or garmin device for a 20 minute reminder. Every time you hear that alarm beep make sure you are eating and drinking.

Test and sample every possible form of nutrition you think you may like. And do so long before the race. Everyone has different stomachs and can tolerate different things. I prefer to stick with a liquid form of fuel as chewing on the bike is sometimes hard when breathing to fast, etc. It bugs me. So I stick with all liquid nutrition. I’ve tried virtually every form of drink mix known to man for cyclists and endurance athletes and have changed several times over the years. Find what you like, and what you can tolerate by practicing on your regular rides leading up to LOTOJA.

Pro Tip– The first 1-2 hours of the race are fairly fast but easy and flat. Many cyclist screw up during this time by not drinking and eating enough during this time period. Your effort is markedly lower this first part of the race and so its easy to think you don’t need to drink. ESPECIALLY when the weather is typically cooler to down right cold in September at the start of the race. When it is cold you really don’t want to drink. But be warned, what you do the first couple of hours will make a significant impact on your last couple of hours that day…

Salt: I am still surprised at how many athletes still don’t take salt during their rides. Electrolytes are a very important part of your performance, your cramping, and your eventual bonking. Be mindful of your sweat rate. Pay attention to what is in your drink and fuel mixes so you know what additional electrolytes you need to use during the race. I like salt chews that are tangy orange. They taste like candy and are therefore so easy to get down. I used to do electrolyte pills, but have moved away from the pill floating in my stomach and moved on to chews or drops in my water bottle. Salt Stick makes a great “chew” tablet that is tangy orange and highly effective. I used it all through Race Across France, and the Race Across America with zero bloating or other stomach issues. Also never a cramp. They are effective.

What about those amazing Feed Zones?

In LOTOJA there are neutral and manned feed zones. The feed zones are your opportunity to stock up on water and fuel. The neutral ones are feed zones where your crew is not allowed to be. These are usually stocked with some water, bananas, GU gels (or something like it), and sometimes Gatorade etc. It is a good opportunity to grab some extra fuel of you are running short. I typically skip the neutral feed zones as I am trying to race and don’t want to stop and waste time. However, I have definitely taken full advantage of these precious neutral feed zones several times over the years when I was struggling or plain short on nutrition. They also often have volunteers stationed here who are eagerly on the side of the road with hand ups. The hand ups are usually the bananas, the GU gels, and water.

The Manned Feed Zones are the ones that you can send your crew to. Here you can have them hand you what you have already planned out. I typically have an ice chest or two at each one with our teams nutrition ready to roll. They are often in drawstring style nylon bags and labeled with each racer’s name. When we roll through we get our specific bags handed to us by the crew. I keep my stops to less than 60 seconds. I hand them my old bottles and grab new ones from them. Then sling my draw string bag on my shoulder and keep pedaling. While rolling out of the feed zone I empty the contents of my bag into my pockets and then ditch the bag in the appropriate trash zone as marked. This style of feed zone efficiency allows for much saved time over the course of the race. Also, if you are in a good group of cyclists you will not want to lose them because you stopped too long. Typically a group rolls in and there is some verbal negotiations wherein everyone meets up at the end of the feed zone in 1-2 minutes. Then you don’t miss out on a good draft and a good group. Be fast in teh feed zones. It is much better.

Also, make sure your nutrition is planned out with everything you need. Put other things in there you MIGHT WANT just in case. Then if you don’t need it you can leave it in the bag and ditch it in the trash zone. Some teams even have spare tires and tubes, or even spare wheels at one or two of the feed zones for a quick change if necessary. Extra Co2 is sometimes a good idea as well. If you put any of these items in your bags, then make sure you tell your crew to go collect your stuff out of the trash zone so you can get your spare tires, tubes, and Co2 back.

Finally, if you have 1-2 family members who will be your crew and they are attempting to go to every feed zone for you… then you are in trouble. It is physically impossible to get from each of the Manned Feed zones in time. The route that the crew must take to get to the feed zones makes it impossible for just 1 vehicle to continually sag for you at each zone. You will beat them to the feed zones and then you’re stuck waiting for them or riding on without any of your nutrition. Some people cheat and drive on teh course to make sure they get there in time. If you are caught doing this you will be disqualified and will likely never be allowed back to this event. So make sure you get enough people to help where you can split up the feed zones.

The Condom Catheter…

Yes, that is what it is called. Several of us race with a condom catheter. It is an amazing way to not ever have to stop and pee. You can lose your group over your need to stop and urinate. To avoid that we race with condom catheters. It is exactly what it sounds like. It is a condom that connect to a tube so you can put it on and run the tube down your leg. It is tucked away so discretely that you can’t tell we even have them. We will slip to the back of the group and untuck the tube out of the bottom of our bibs and then pee. It takes some getting used too. But wow – so wroth it. Take time to measure properly and get the right size. But worth every effort.

In the first 1-2 hours of the race there has been a negotiated pee stop every year. What is a negotiated pee stop? Basically everyone in the main peloton is so uncomfortable with the urge to urinate that they all start talking about it, and then negotiate a stop by shouting out that we are all going to stop and pee. These are wonderful but can’t be counted on after this first one. Once the climbing begins the group breaks up so much that the pee breaks seems to be on your own. Without a catheter you will have to stop on the side of the road or at a porta potty and then light some matches to catch up. It is a waste of energy and effort. We vote the condom catheter. Sold on Amazon.

p.s. Not everyone on our team uses them… yet.

Bike Plate Number Holder

This is an awesome race and you actually get a legit race number that is stiff and designed to be mounted on a plate holder. They are inexpensive and can also be bought on amazon. Here is such a link: https://www.amazon.com/Thinvik-Number-Plate-Holder-Cycling….

LODGING

Get your hotels early. If you have the time and means then stay an extra day or town in Jackson Hole. It is beautiful. It is also nearby to so many attractions. But be prepared, the hotels in Jackson Hole are not cheap. And the hotels in Logan Utah (at the start) sell out early. We recommend booking early.

There is definitely more we can talk about, but for now lets leave the rest for another post. Have fun, train hard, and get ready for an awesome ride. We will most definitely see you out there!

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Can Your Lawyer Get You a 400% Increase?

“My lawyer doesn’t suck!” is something we often hear from our clients. How do they know? I’ll tell how you Jake knows… Jake is a recent client who hired us after his previous lawyer had taken the case as far as they could. With our unique skill set and aggressive representation we were able to get a 400% increase in settlement funds for Jake! That is 400% over and above what the previous lawyer got. This is a common story for us. It is one of countless experiences we share with our clients and one of the reason they each know that we are the best. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

Often clients are afraid to hire a personal injury lawyer because they think that the 33% settlement fee taken by the lawyer is too high. In all honesty, I agree for some cases. There are a few smaller cases where it may not make sense for a lawyer to get involved. That is more rare then you think. It will come down to how much do you trust your lawyer to actually get you the highest dollar amount possible? Are you confident they will do everything necessary to maximize your settlement? Are they willing to actually go to trial or would they prefer to sit in their office in jeans and a polo shirt making some phone calls until the dollar amount is finally high enough for them to pay their rent that month?

The dirty secret in the personal injury world is that most lawyers are lazy. They haven’t been to court in so long they forget how to even dress for it not to mention what to actually do in the court room. Personal injury work is so volume driven that many lawyers are used to the comfortable setting of writing a few nasty letters and making a few nasty phone calls hoping for a decent enough settlement that they can then sell it to the client as a good ending to their case. Meanwhile, they fully know they aren’t maximizing the settlement. They essentially become pencil pushers. Stuck in a rut of volume based personal injury work with mediocre settlements at best.

Not us! Our bicycle crash attorneys are incredible. We show up to work every day dressed and ready for court. Why? Because we actually go to court very often for our clients. We are not lazy. Also, it is just a principle of showing up prepared for a battle with your best foot forward. It feels good to be ready. How do you think a soldier would feel if he showed to the front lines of a war dressed casually in street clothes? He may be a good soldier, but he wouldn’t feel like it that day. We stand out because we are good at our jobs, in fact we are the best bicycle crash lawyers in the entire country. We also stand out because we dress like it. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

We work on cases likely 2-3x as long as casual mediocre law firms work on cases. We actually take cases to trial. We are not looking for the easy cash in a quick settlement. We look for the best possible outcome for our clients even if it means working on a case twice as long and filing a law suit. We ride bikes and we appear in court as regulars. Like in Jake’s case, we were able to get a 400% increase in settlement because we worked the case for over a 1.5 years, filed a law suit after the insurance company denied our requests and repeatedly offered us low settlement amounts, and we forced them into litigation- all with the single purpose of getting a real and meaningful settlement for our client. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

We continually strive to sharpen our skills ad our education. Completing exclusive and expensive litigation training through the very best resources. I have recently completed additional certification of advanced trial skills through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. These sessions were often one on one with the some of the most prestigious attorneys and judges in our country. Worth every penny, and makes me an even more skilled and bad ass attorney. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

Choose your bicycle crash lawyer carefully. Choose the best bike accident attorneys in the country. Start here.

We are here for you. We got your back. We protect our own like you’re a member of our tribe.

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Cycling and The Power of Personal Metabolic Data

How well do you know yourself? If you’re like me when I first started cycling you probably don’t know much at all. There is a real progression in the sport of cycling. It starts out with a beginner bike, or a borrowed bike of sorts from a friend. Then you get enough courage to buy your first real bike and its likely used slightly and you’re still shocked at the cost! After a while you are fully hooked and you buy a real nice carbon bike brand new. You can’t even imagine the days you were on an old clunky thing from Wal-Mart and you find yourself grateful that you have evolved to the understanding that it is perfectly OK for a bicycle to cost more than most college student’s cars!

This evolution also includes those accessories from the cycling kit, cycling computers, wheels, power meters, electronic shifting, and on and on and on. The more we ride the more we get sucked into the experience of it all and we learn that there is always so much more that we still don’t know. We learn that some accessories actually help us go faster, ride with more comfort and less pain, function better, sync to our networks with WiFi, or simply just help the overall ride experience feel better. Cycling is an amazing experience with layer upon layer of new information and upgrades. The technology changes so fast that every year the bicycle manufacturers are releasing some new frame, brake system, or shifting system that completely changes everything they have accomplished the year before. As I sit here and write this I do not find myself irritated or annoyed at the constant progression of the sport but rather find it all very exciting. There is just so much out there that can help us become better.

To this point I will write about my experience with metabolic testing. I am lucky enough to live near one of the best metabolic systems and testing methods/equipment in the country. Right here in Arizona there is a former pro cyclist and nutrition guru Anna (Sanders) Sparks. She formed Sparks Systems. Through this company anyone can get tested know their personal metabolic data. This data is so MUCH MORE IMPORTANT THAT YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE. Knowing this type of information and how it affects you is like the difference between a WWII bicycle and what we ride and race on now. It is just simply significant.

The nutshell version is you get to see whether or not your body burns carbs or fat as it’s primary fuel source on and/or off the bike. You also get to know exactly when your body switches from fats to carbs. You also get to know your exact and precise heart rate zones AND how to enlarge them. You get to know when exactly your body starts producing lactate acid at a level that your body can’t clear it out anymore and your legs start burn – AND how to enlarge it. You get to know exactly what your VO2 Max is and how it affects your training and what you can do to make progress with it. You also get to know your metabolic efficiency point (MEP) where you can with exactness know what exact bpm of your HR are most efficient in the burning of fats vs carbs. Other things are of course your power zones, and how many watts it takes before you hit your Lactate and Aerobic thresh holds.

I mean seriously- this info can change everything. Many of you know that I like to train and race in long distance non-stop ultra cycling challenges. Some of the races I have successfully completed include things like Saints to Sinners (522 miles – solo, 2nd place finish), Race Across the West (930.4 miles – solo, 9th place finish), Race Across France (1504 miles – 2 man team, 3rd place finish), and this coming summer in June of 2019 I will race in the Race Across America on a two man team with my incredible friend Tommy Liddell. We will race it as a two man team and will be hitting approximately 3,200 miles in 6.5 days. I love to ride, and I love to ride in extreme circumstances. But don’t let that thought scare you away from the importance of this data. Anyone who wants to be faster, never bonk again, race or ride without fatigue, and more can benefit from this type of data!

After testing you get to get the 411 so to speak on what it all means from Anna herself or someone under her employ. Armed with what all of this info means and their professional highly individualized advice to your personal situation on how to make improvements, then you can literally change it all up. The results are astounding and relatively quick. Most changes can be made in a matter of weeks.

Who wouldn’t want to increase their speed at lower HR zones? Or how many of us would give anything we had to be able to hang onto that fast group without feeling like our legs are catching fire and will fall as dead and heavy burnt little stumps?!

Below is a picture of the data I have been tracking on the last 5 tests I received. The important column is the middle test dated July 5, 2018. This is only about 2.5 months after my crash and clavicle surgery earlier that year. It is also only about 1 month before I had to go race in the Race Across France. The results of that test are depressing. It shows what lack of training can do. After my crash and surgery I immediately began training the best I could in my garage on my smart trainer. But it wasn’t that great, and it was certainly painful. The volume and quality of training certainly fell well below what I was used to doing and the testing beforehand shows the decline. In fact just about 1 month prior to the crash I tested and my results are on the 2nd column there dated March 2nd, 2018. That test was awesome. my fitness was amazing. But alas, a single wreck and surgery can change everything…

Applying what I know about the data and certainly following the careful guidance of Anna and her team at Sparks Systems, I was able to crawl back. Check out this chart and see the fitness. I pay particular attention to the HR Zones as these are pretty key in long distance cycling per my training focus on fat adaption etc.

Right before the Race Across France my Zone 2 was a dismal range of 106 bpm to 126 bpm. As of today my Zone 2 starts at 150 bpm and goes all the way to 170 bpm! This is an incredible change and it is a product of intention and creation. I get tested. I learn where I am at and then apply their principles to affect a change. So cool. I’m not even known as a geeky data guy at all, but this sort of thing I love to keep track of because it directly affects how well I am riding out there. I can actually feel the difference. It is awesome.

Check it out. Fly in and make an appointment. You don’t even need to bring your bike- the whole test is done on a stationary bike. Thank you Anna and Sparks Systems for an incredible journey. I look forward to the next few months! Check them out here: https://www.sparkssystems.net/

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

CARBOHOLIC

CARBOHOLICS

So many of us have no idea when we exactly start burning fats or carbs. At what heart rate do you begin burning carbs and at what burn rate? When do you start building lactate acid and when do you actually recover? While there are a lot of sophisticated apps, gps devices (such as garmin), and other devices such as Humon, none of these can accurately and reliably tell you this affirmation. Many outstanding athletes are operating at far less than their potential simply because they have never been “met tested” (metabolically tested) to even know this information. Knowing these sorts of details that are 100% unique to you simply allows you to use that info to adapt your nutrition and training to maximize results. A really good friend of mine, long time teammate, and my 2019 Race Across America teammate Tommy Liddell just experienced the powerful impact of this testing and what just 7 weeks of adaption can do. Check out these impressive results below in his article:

A Healthier Me

The graph to the right is a typical week of eating “healthy” for me before working with Sparks Systems. I focused on the amount of calories I consumed vs. the calories I burned cycling (after all I cycle so I can eat all the yummy junk food I want, right?!). Using common dietary apps I could see if I was on track to lose weight (my goal) and be “healthy” in my mind. See if this sounds familiar, while calorie counting I often felt hungry (getting that growling in the stomach), had less energy through my day, and would often get that light headed thing when you stand up too fast (yeah that’s messed up blood sugar levels…bad!). And of course no matter what the scale said I always had the “Dad Bod”…you know the extra weight around the gut, love handles, etc. that always stuck around no matter what I tried, I was “skinny fat”.

Time For a Change

Sept 14th, 2018 I began my journey to a healthier me. Sparks Systems tested my metabolic efficiency point (the point my body burns more carbs than fat as energy). We found out I was a carboholic! At my rested heart rate my body utilized primarily carbs to produce energy. I learned this is not healthy, and was the reason for my cramping, sore muscles while exercising, “Dad Bod”, food cravings, and sugar lows.

The body only stores a limited amount of carbs that can be used for energy, and can only process an even smaller amount via the foods you eat. Because carbs are fast burning energy you constantly have to replenish, or eat more, of them when your body uses carbs as it’s primary energy source. The typical American diet consumes way more carbs than the body can process as energy. When the body can’t use those excess carbs as energy it stores them as fat to use later. Guess where carbs are stored in the body…liver, kidneys, stomach…so when there’s extra that are turned into fats…yep “Dad Bod” or that excess flab you can never get rid of. No wonder there’s an obesity epidemic in the United States, we are a bunch of carboholics! Our bodies have been trained, by the foods (fuel) we provide it, to burn carbs all the time, so we never burn the fats we keep accumulating!

Sparks Systems provided me with a personalized macronutrient breakdown of what my body needed to function and to reprogram it to use fats as fuel instead of carbs. The results after 6 weeks of coaching from Sparks Systems was AMAZING!!!

I don’t have hunger cravings during the day, I eat as much good foods as I want (and no it’s not tofu garbage…it’s stuff I like). I’ve lost 10 lbs without trying, 3 inches around my waist, and have energy all day!

I’ve retrained my body to burn fats at higher heart rates in just 6 weeks! The best part though is seeing my family making healthier eating choices. Thank you Sparks Systems!

Fat Adapting to the Test – Tour de Tucson

The Tour de Tucson is a 100 mile bike race held every year in Tucson, AZ. I’ve participated in this event for many years, but every year I fell victim to the same issues:

  • Muscles would fatigue
  • Severe muscle cramps at about mile 60-70
  • Upset stomach after the race from all the gels, drink mixes, etc. I took to prevent the above

Sparks Systems showed me the problem wasn’t my race nutrition, but my pre-race nutrition! I was a carboholic. After 2 or 3 hours of hard racing my body burnt through all the carbs it had in store, and no matter how much I shoved into my stomach, my body couldn’t process it fast enough to use it.
This year after 6 weeks with Sparks Systems and fueling with just water & BCAAs; no cramps, higher watts, no post race gut rot, and no sore legs with a 20 min PR (4:18 / 23.9mph).

Fat adapting worked!

Contact Sparks Systems directly: https://www.sparkssystems.net/

Who am I?

This is me and my better half Tiffany in Rome January of 2018. We have 4 beautiful children ages 7 to 15. I work as a corporate trainer for MidFirst Bank and my wife is a trainer of Montessori teachers. We are both very active cyclists and always considered ourselves healthy people.

Why Sparks Systems?

I first contacted Sparks Systems to test my metabolic efficiency because I wanted to improve my cycling. In longer races, 3+ hours, my legs would always cramp up! I couldn’t keep up and I’d tell myself “I need to get my nutrition right during my races”. What I learned at Sparks Systems completely changed my understanding of healthy!

Written by: TOM LIDDELL

 

 

BAA Racing and Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC are proud to host this article on our blog with the permission of Tom Liddell.

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Race Across France

Not sure where to even start with this. Racing my bicycle across France was on so many levels beyond incredible. The scenery, the culture, the iconic mountain climbs, the weather, the crew, my teammate. Everything was incredible. Incredibly hard, incredibly beautiful, simply incredible. Words can’t adequately describe what I was blessed to see. Everything from the majestic Alps, to the medieval villages across France. This race was hands down one of the most beautiful and challenging races I have ever been blessed to be a part of.

Huge shout out to the two men responsible for this race, Arnaud Manzanini and Loïc Guenot. These two men designed and hosted an amazing race course. I know they had many volunteers and other staff members who contributed greatly, in fact too many to name. However, I can name these two. They were present at every moment. They were intentional about every aspect of this race. One of the more touching moments for us as an American team was immediately upon finishing the race we were discussing the beauty of the roads, and the course. Arnuad then described and explained to us that he specifically and intentionally chose small and narrow roads through small towns and villages throughout the country so the racers can feel France, can experience France. In fact, he mentioned that after our American team signed up he intentionally created the course to go through the famous Omaha Beach of D-Day fame from WWII. It was a special night to pedal through there and feel of those sacrifices of so many of our country men there on that hallowed beach. In fact, I looked for opportunities to always STAY on the bike and to only rest when my shift was over, but that sacred night I stopped and took a moment at the memorial to honor those brave men and women of WWII. It is a memory I’ll always have with me. Thank you Anruad and Loïc for an incredible course, and incredible hospitality.

Last shout out before I recap the race from my perspective. Having a teammate and a crew is the only way these races are even possible. Many a times we would comment to each other as teammates and crew how this race “was no joke.” The difficulty was real. The course challenging. The lack of sleep, etc. is all legendary and expected. In spite of all of these challenges I was blessed with a crew who gave all. They turned themselves inside out for us. Their never ending sacrifices on our behalf will always be a part of me now, a part of my very being. Dear crew, you inspire me. I am moved by you. Your efforts on our behalf literally bring me to tears of gratitude. Thank you Bob, Del Ann, Cecily, Ray, and Sonja. And to my teammate Jason, I couldn’t have done it without you. Your efforts and time in the saddle helped make this finish a reality. I honor you for showing up to a race of this magnitude.

Now, lets get on with the race! Some critical background info about the distance and elevation gain for this race is as follows:

Total Distance 1,573.19 Miles
Total Elevation Gain 104,350’
Total Time 5:11:03:15 (5 days, 11 hours, 3 min etc.)

After a few days of early arrival settling, and eating like kings (make no mistake about it – I live to eat and love food more than just about anything including my precious bicycles) – our race day was upon us. Not many of us had slept good as it was hot and our Air B n B didn’t have A/C. Lots of mosquito bites and sleepless nights led to the start.

Our strategy was to rotate as teammates on a 1-2 hour basis during the day and up to 4 hours during the middle of the night. This was to encourage better effort output during the day and better recovery and sleep at night. For the most part we did this. As was pretty expected, anytime you have a plan you must be prepared to adapt it completely once you have boots on the ground and can better see the needs of the team, race, route, weather, and crew needs. But in general, this was the schedule we kept to.

This race is essentially a TT race with zero drafting allowed. As teammates we couldn’t even draft each other, but we could of course take turns. So we did. I started out the first hour on the first day. It was immediately apparent that we would be in for some absolutely beautiful climbs. My first leg was about 14 miles and 2,000’ of climbing right off the bat. It never really let up. The Race Across France is a climber’s race for sure.

It was also immediately apparent that as Americans we would struggle with directions, and map issues for likely the entire race. In the first 10 minutes we took our first wrong turn. The race map and printed turn by turn directions were simply not that accurate. The GPS file provided to us was something we only learned later how badly we truly underutilized it. Our poor crew was stuck trying to make very quick turn by turn directions in small little villages and cities with what felt like billions of “round a bouts” as opposed to straight roads with street lights and clearly labeled street signs. After the race was over I looked back on the map issue with some reflection and can’t honestly remember a single leg on the bike that I did where we didn’t get lost a handful of times, or at least have to come to a complete stop a handful of times just to figure out which way we were supposed to go. From a racing perspective the minutes lost turned into hours over the course of a long endurance race such as this. In fact, there was several times that we were in fact lost so badly that we were stopped for 1-2 hours. In a nonstop race, that is just killing your finish time. HOWEVER, I can say that our crew did their very best and that is all that anyone can do. Missed turns, wrong directions, and getting lost just became a “normal” part of our race just as never ending climbs were already a part of it. We just dealt with it the best we could and kept rolling.

The first day and night were one of the toughest time cut offs to make. There was more breathing room in the rest of the race, but by the middle of the first night we were supposed to be at the summit of the iconic Mount Ventux. I remember taking the first 4 hour night shift on the bike and our crew chief Bob telling me that I needed to keep a certain pace to try and at least get to the bottom of the climb for Jason to have enough time to get to the top of it during his shift so we can make the time cut off. I took this request as seriously as I could. I hustled. I put it out there and upped the watts both in my climbs and during my descents. My whole mantra was “I can rest later when I am off the bike, no need to coast now.” And it worked beautifully. In the past my ultra cycling racing has always been solo. This was the first time I tired an ultra race with a teammate. With a teammate I could enjoy the “off the bike” time as best as I could and recover and stretch, and fuel, etc. the best I could during my off the bike time. This led me to greater watt output capacity on the bike. I pushed hard during the night to get to the bottom of Mount Ventux. When we finally arrived at the bottom I had plenty of time still in my shift so I kept rolling up the mountain to get as far up as possible for my teammate and for the cut off time. I am not certain how far up I got but it is somewhere between 1/3 and 1/2 way up the mountain. It was a great relief to get further than the goal and build that padded time for our team effort. Proud moments.

The next few days and nights all seem to merge together for me. I can say that we kept pedaling and kept moving closer to the finish. Soon we were squarely in the Alps. And I have to say, that these Alps are breathtaking. There really isn’t any words for the beauty and sheer majesty of them. They are kingly. Also, pedaling up them was no joke! Holy cow. They are often 9% sustained climbs. In fact, in France along this race route it seemed pretty lucky to catch anything less than about 6%. If you were on a 4-5% grade we called it flat. For those of you in Arizona, Mt. Lemmon is an average of about 5%. That would have been flat to us compared to the sustained grades in the Alps.

The hair pin turns of Alp d’huez were amazing. The iconic and legendary atmosphere was just awesome. The names of the pro cyclists who had just raced up that mountain last month in the Tour de France were still painted on the roads. SO AWESOME! It was evening and then nighttime as we climbed Alp d’huez. It was also raining and cold. And for anyone wondering, once you summit Alp d’huez there are more 3-4 more summits within riding distance of this amazing climb AND of course this course made us go through all of them. Alp d’huez for me will always be the gift that kept on giving. By this time is was early in the morning (1a-3a) and I was still riding a couple of hours longer than my expected 4 hour shift since our RV was a bit lost trying to get down the mountain an alternate and safer route. So I kept pedaling. I ran out of dry and warm clothes of any kind. With a few more summits to hit and being wet and freezing cold it began to just be funny. Ray Ray was in the follow car. I had asked him to scrounge up whatever he could find. I kept my bibs on and threw some rain pants on over my bibs and was ready to go without a jersey all together as there was no coat at the time. I figured shirtless and somewhat dry was better than a wet jersey. Luckily Ray found an old t-shirt so I put that on. It was a funny sight to see such a ghetto looking cyclist climbing through those Alps that night. But hey, I kept the climbing and the pace alive. I think that night I stayed out about 6 hours and climbed over 10,000 feet in just 46 miles. It was a rough, cold, wet, and STEEP night in the Alps. Lol

We also climbed and summited several other iconic and classic Tour de France mountains over the next day or two. All of them still freshly painted with pro tour team and cyclist names by loyal fans. It was amazing. Each time, the descents were equally amazing. I am HUGE fan of very fast descents. I will say this, on this course I took it easy. Many of them were at night for me and I couldn’t see, or it had been raining and was just wet and dark. My shermer’s neck was no joke as well and the pain from it would significantly increase on any aggressive descending position. But let me tell you my friends, the descents were still rad! Hair pin turns in the Alps are fun to climb but a lot more fun to descend! So cool. So fast. SO sketchy! A few times I locked up the brakes and had some rear wheel slippage. Scary for sure.

During the days we also saw so many of the Alps and the little ski villages nestled all over them. They were simple. They were beautiful. Life up there seemed slower and more simple. I found myself instantly connected to the whole country and culture though my bike. The journey was more than a race now. It seemed to create a connection in me to the culture and country of France. I’d be the first to go back into some of those smaller towns in the Alps or even in the French countryside and just vacation for a week or so. They seemed to just draw you in. They are like a magnet for the soul. I loved it. Just loved everything about it. A piece of me will forever be there. And a piece of it will now forever be with me.

The next few days were crushing it after the Alps. We tried to hustle as we were under the impression that our cut off time was Friday morning at 9:00a. We hustled. We all gave a lot. We rolled through many French towns and villages. Each so unique and beautiful. Fresh bread baking in the background, fresh flowers hanging from pots, cobblestone roads. The whole thing was just magical.

What wasn’t magical was the pain in my shoulders and neck. It began creeping in just as it had in Race Across the West 2 years ago. It became just so bad. A few times when I finally got off the bike I would collapse or fall into the side of the RV and beg for a crew member to just dig into my back, shoulder, and neck with their elbow. These elbow massages kept me alive and kept me going. The pain was so severe that at times I would just lean into the massage and tears would stream down my face. But hey, that is part of Ultra Cycling. Dealing with pain is always a priority. This pain crept in after the 2nd day or so. By the end I couldn’t even really squeeze the brakes that well and would sometimes seize up in my shoulders with a massive spasm while pedaling, It would stand me straight up non the bike and I would grunt in pain and stretch it the best I could. Then turn it off the best I could and keep pedaling. I am proud to say I never took a break just to stretch or rest from pain. My rest and my pain stretching was entirely off shift. I kept going at all costs. It was a personal best and an awesome thing to look back on with gratitude for the strength I had built leading up to this race. I am not sure where I heard this, but I 100% believe it: Hardship doesn’t build character – it reveals it. I was blessed to experience this race and all of its adversity with character that made the hardship easier to bear.

One of the biggest hardships in these ultra races is the total lack of sleep. We had rented an RV hoping to get some sleep in it. But I am not one that can sleep in a moving motorhome. Holy cow those tight and narrow roads along with the hair pin turns and round a bots everywhere made sleep a precious commodity. I estimate somewhere between 4-6 hours of total sleep during those 5.5 days of racing. Just had to deal with it like any other challenge and keep pedaling.

One huge highlight for me was when my sweetheart of almost 18 years now flew out to France and surprised me on the course. Things were hard. She knew it. She got in touch with Ray and jumped on a plane and surprised me the last two days of racing. It was awesome to have her with me. I got off the bike and I knew something was up as our camera man was out there with the camera on me and this little black car rolls up behind the RV and she steps out. SO cool. We embraced, and cried a bit. I was and still am so grateful to have her out there. She brings a strength that I can appreciate. She gets me. She knows me. She is my better half for sure and I am incomplete without her. Having her there was beyond amazing. She then jumped right into crew rotations and provided some much needed crew relief the next two days and nights. So epic.

As Friday morning neared it became evident that we would miss the cut off time. After we had pushed so hard and we ended up missing it I was disappointed. I remember calling Bob over as crew chief to have a discussion with him and the crew to gauge where their interest level was in finishing despite we missed the cut off. I felt I didn’t have anything to prove to anyone, yet I didn’t feel like I could demand we keep racing after the official cut off time without their support and buy in as crew and even more importantly the official nod so to speak from the race director. The last thing I wanted to do was to be some selfish and stubborn American deciding to race in spite of the fact that they may have only purchased permits for a certain time period, etc. We decided as a team to keep racing and in the meantime to get permission from the race director to also keep racing.

To my great surprise Bob came back to me sometime later (maybe only a few minutes, I really don’t recall) and informed me that we were mistaken on the official cut off time and that instead of Friday at 9:00a it was Saturday at 9:00a. WHAT A RELIEF! Now we knew we would be official finishers! Such a happy moment!

We kept racing. We finished sometime that late afternoon. As Jason and I rolled across the finish line we were both probably a bit in shock as we were literally and legally official finishers of the first ever Race Across France. So grateful to be a part of this first one. We had a blast. We raced hard. It was epic. Now on to the next one… 😉

My finish stats from my Garmin:

Total Miles Raced 896.97
Total Feet Climbed 69,101’
Total KJs burned 34,347
Average Power 162 watts
Average HR 146 bpm
Average Speed 15.12 mph
Moving Time 60:22:13

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

2019 BAA Racing & Club Kit Submissions

Hey champs!

It is time to redesign the BAA racing kits. Our executive team committee would love to review any ideas from you! We understand that collectively everyone can contribute to an even greater kit idea and overall look. Furthermore, if your idea is the winning submission as voted upon by the committee then you will receive a FREE kit!

Here are the rules:

  1. Must incorporate the BAA branded hazard stripes (currently on our sleeves) – use them, design them, and place them how ever you feel your creative talent dictates. Just be sure they are on there somewhere and visible.
  2. Must use high vis colors somewhere on the kit. Preferably the high vis neon yellow/green we have been famous for.
  3. Must include the BAA Logo.
  4. Should prob include: BAA RACING somewhere on there as well.
  5. Must leave pockets available for sponsor logos.
  6. Must include the US Flag Somewhere, big or small- currently on the sleeve but of course maybe you can find a better place… (any color, black and greyed out flag also cool).
  7. Must be submitted via email to ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com no later than July 15th!

Have fun. Be creative. Be edgy (hidden patterns or tattoo feel) or be conservative. Be funny or be bold. Be classic or be modern. Whatever floats your boat. Let’s see what you come up with. Historically, both the Race Team and the Club wear the same kit. We love that. Everyone on the same page and on equal ground. Once approved we may do some one offs or various color combinations of the winning kit if there is an interest, as well as some sleeveless versions if there is an interest.

p.s. Hand drawings on napkins are fine as well (just not likely to really get your full vision – but submit a picture of your drawing via email, or better yet- use a computer and render it that way if you can. Either way get us your vision and lets see what we can create together!

GOOD LUCK! We can’t wait to see what you submit.

Logo Files Are Here:

baa-horizontal_revised

baa-pocket_square-logo

baa-racing-square-logo

 

PSD Template File – for those of you with mad Photoshop skills here is a template file form our Rebellious Kits. You would definitely need to remove the Rebellious kit artwork, but underneath is the kit template that would work for your skill set. This is all we have – if it is not in your wheelhouse then draw on a napkin! lol Thanks everyone:

Jersey: cta-rebellious-curvas

Bibs: pta-rebellious-curvas

Most Recent Kits

Finding Success in Cycling

There is no such thing as accidental success. Period.

Success in cycling is no different than success in business, family, and life in general. It doesn’t happen by accident. I have been blessed with some amazing experiences and associations with some truly incredible people. I have found that in order to be truly successful you must create your success. It doesn’t matter if you competitively race or just enjoy riding. Your success in your joyful rides are subject to the same principles of success that an avid competitor must follow. It takes hard work, intention, commitment, determination, etc. Even the joy rider has to make sure to carve out time to ride, and not let every other challenge get in the way. Too many distractions in this world lead us away from our goals and our dreams. Even if you only dream of enjoying some decent fitness and the occasional group ride you will want to understand these principles of success.

Do you think you can get lucky? Maybe, but in my experience success is something you have to create. This world will not hand it to you. Your dreams don’t just magically come true and your life will only ever end in “happily ever after” because you work your @## off to create your dreams.

You can create success. And let me tell you, success begets more success. It doesn’t take untold riches or fame to finally be successful. It takes hard work, clear commitments, unflinching determination, and a ton of intention. Show me a successful person and I will show you these characteristics.

It is an absolute lie that some people are just born into success, or are born with a natural ability to be successful. If you are a human being and currently breathing then you have the power to choose. The power to create. The power to be successful. It is not some right reserved to the wealthy. It is not some gift only some special few athletes enjoy. Success is up to every one to create for themselves. In fact, I know some very wealthy individuals who are not even remotely successful. Their wealth was gifted to them. They are not successful they are merely living a lifestyle that was given to them. Imagine what these people could do if they were driven, determined, committed and intentional about being a better version of themselves today than they were yesterday? If they were driven to accomplish something today that was greater than their yesterday? You would then see some success start to be born and with their resources some pretty epic accomplishments.

I refuse to be average. I refuse to believe that the circumstances we are born into dictate our potential and our possibilities. I know that everyone can accomplish unbelievable and epic things. I know we can become incredible and dominate our space- whatever that space may be. Given enough time and determination in your commitment you can become the best at anything you want. YES, I said anything you want. I have experienced this time and time again in my own life and in the lives of those incredible people I associate with. Look at the Steve Jobs’ of the world, or the Facebook king, or Warren Buffet, Michael Jordan, and so on and so on. These titans did not accidentally get successful. They built an empire through hard work, determination, commitment, and lots of intention.

I’ll share two simple yet powerful personal examples out of my own life. While I have many of these stories, the two today seem appropriate and fun: one while I was a young scrappy high school kid and the other from just 2 years ago. When I was in high school I wanted to play on the boy’s volleyball team. In southern California the volleyball teams were incredible and well respected. Many players from my regional area went on to play in the Olympics, college, and pro teams. I tried out as a sophomore and made the junior varsity team. I never played a single game. I was terrible, legitimately terrible. The upside was I sat next to the coach every game. I really got to know him well. I also worked my butt off every day in practice and demonstrated my commitment and determination to be better. I am not sure if he took pity on me or what he was thinking, but he offered to personally coach me through the off season. With his mentoring and my determination to practice every single day, I tried out for the varsity team the next year and made it on the team as a starter. I remember falling a sleep at night with a volleyball in my hands while I laid in bed and practiced setting the ball to myself. I was committed. I was determined. And in that time period I became good enough to start on our varsity team. Our team went on to compete in the state championships and many of my teammates played college ball on scholarships. It was truly an incredible transformation.

On another occasion as an adult I weighed nearly 300 pounds and was absolutely tired of feeling fat and out of control. I recall getting into triathlons and cycling. I eventually and slowly lost most of my weight and competed in 8 full distance Ironman triathlons along with countless other halves, and Olympic distances. Eventually I competed as a solo cyclist in the Race Across the West. It is a 930 mile endurance cycling race from Oceanside CA to Durango CO. With a 96 hour time limit to complete this race in you are compelled to ride without stopping, or at least keeping your breaks to a bare minimum. There isn’t much sleep to speak of with most of us cycling the first 48 hours non stop, followed with the occasional 20-30 minute power nap every 24 hours later. In 2016 I was 1 of 9 finishers and I finished in the midst of incredible adversity. I suffered from some extreme fatigue in my neck and shoulder muscles eventually contracting a condition known as Shermer’s Neck. My head fell completely to my chest and I could not lift it of my own strength at about 400 miles into the race. The pain was incredible and I had another 500+ miles to go! I had passed out, I had extreme difficulty breathing and even coughed up blood several times. The days and the nights all seemed to merge together. I had thousands of opportunities to quit and even more reasons that would seem 100% justified. In fact many of my competitors quit for much less severe adversities than I suffered with.

My point is, that ordinary people can accomplish extra ordinary things. Success is becoming a little better than you were yesterday. Regression should be your worst enemy. Forward progression should be your relentless goal. Your success can never properly be measured against the standards of your peers or the cultural expectations of your society. Success is simply giving it your best and making damn sure that your best today is better than your best was yesterday; that is success. It is in a nutshell never settling but rather always striving for your full potential. And I assure you, whatever you have now- whoever you have become now- NO MATER HOW GREAT, is not yet your full potential. If you are a millionaire, then why not be a billionaire, if you are a billionaire, then why not be a trillionaire, etc. Keep reaching. Keep pushing. Keep fighting.

Success then does not happen by accident. You can’t accidentally wake up better. You have to work hard at it. You have to be awake to who you are and who you were. You have to be awake to what you want and where you are going. Then you must act intentionally to create that. You must be committed to it like its your last breath. You must go all in. There is no half way in commitment. Then match your commitment with a level of determination that can overcome any challenge you will face. It is not a matter of whether or not you will face adversity, it is a question of how you will handle it when it rains hell fire down on you whilst you are trying to smash your goals. Hard work alone is not enough. But when you harness hard work with intention towards a clear commitment matched with unflinching determination… well that is someone I’d bet my life is successful.

Tune out the naysayers. Ignore the haters. There will always be opposition. Some of this may even come from those closest to you. Starve these feelings and instead feed the beast within. That primal beast that is unsatisfied with what you have today and who you are today. Feed that beast that wants more and wants to be better. This is key to staying focused on what you know you want to do and become. Tune them out, and only listen to you. You’ve got this. You’re incredible. If you are reading this then you are breathing, so make the changes you know you need to make. I’ve got your back. I love hanging with incredible people- happy to chat about this any time. Call me, email me, message me, Instagram me, Facebook me, tweet me, YouTube me, whatever it takes- I’m here and I want to see you reach your potential.

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

 

The Top 8 PT Stretches Every Cyclist Should Know

The Top 8 PT Stretches Every Cyclist Should Know

My friend and teammate, Tyler Arnett, is a fantastic and competitive cyclist. Currently racing as a Cat 2 cyclist he really knows his way around competitive cycling. He is also a fantastic physical therapist. I once asked him his thoughts on some of the best stretches cyclists should know in order to prevent pain and increase performance. He just recently wrote this up for me to share with all of you. Thank you Tyler!

My experience as a Cyclist & a Physical Therapist

By Tyler Arnett PT, DPT

I’ve considered myself an endurance athlete since the 7th grade when I went out for the cross-country team. I was always someone with average talent who decided I could beat people if I out-worked them. I spent the next 9 years through high school and college running at a (somewhat) competitive level in cross-country and track & field. I competed at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT – a Division I school. I was a walk-on athlete who earned a scholarship my sophomore year based on my freshman results. My mentality was always to train when others were sleeping; do the extra mile (or 5); do the extra interval; or push myself when I was hurt.

Did you read that last sentence? That was my former/dumber self. There’s a small but significant difference between “Pushing when it hurts” and “Pushing when I’m hurt”. If you don’t push yourself when it hurts, then you’re not really competing. You might be exercising, but you’re certainly not competing. I want you to think back to your last really tough event. How were those last 5 miles of that century ride? How did the last 5 minutes of that 40k time-trial feel? Were you in the pain cave? I hope so! That’s what I consider “healthy pain”. This is where we grow as an athlete and a person. This is vastly different than pathological pain, though as athletes, we often confuse the two. We often rationalize working through pain when we shouldn’t. It has taken me years (decades?) to figure out that I was doing myself more harm than good when I continued to run through pain and injury.

So what type of pain should you be concerned with? As a rule of thumb, muscle soreness after a hard workout or race that dissipates in 48-72 hours is normal. Muscular pain that lasts longer than that is a sign that something isn’t normal. If the little voice in your head says, “This doesn’t feel like normal pain”, then it probably isn’t. There are way too many overuse injuries to discuss here, but as a general rule, if I’m having muscular pain that lasts longer than 72 hours, I take a week off the bike. I’ve found that at least 90% of injuries can be avoided if we properly rest and give our body a chance to heal things before they become a chronic issue. Many of us (my former self included) tell ourselves, “If it still hurts in a month, I’ll take some time off”. By this point, it’s too late. The damage is done and your recovery is going to take at least 3-4 times as long to improve.

Another pain to be concerned with is pain located at or near a joint. Cycling is a low impact sport and should not cause joint pain. Tendonitis is a common injury for cyclists and is often found at the knee or ankle. This is not a type of pain I would recommend “pushing through”. Rather, take up to a week off the bike and focus on some of the treatments found below.

Can I prevent pain?

Short answer – No. I’ve never met any serious endurance athlete that has never experienced some sort of injury. That being said, there are way to minimize the risk of injury.

  • Professional bike fit: A bike fit makes sure your joints and muscles are properly positioned so they can maximize power to the pedals while improving efficiency in your pedal stroke. A seat too high or too low can cause knee pain. Handlebars being too far or close to your saddle is sure to cause back or neck pain. Even small adjustments in cleat position can have a huge effect on foot or knee pain. Do yourself a favor and get a professional bike fit. Otherwise, you’ll need to spend a LOT more time doing the following Physical Therapy interventions.
  • Foam rolling: It would be great if we all have unlimited wealth and access to a massage therapist, but that’s unrealistic for most of us. Foam rolling is a great alternative that is inexpensive, simple, and you can do it anywhere. Spent a few minutes foam rolling each major muscle group in your legs 1-3x per week as maintenance. Roll your calves, quads, hamstrings, IT band, and glutes. If there’s a certain muscle or area that is extra sensitive, emphasize that area for a week or 2 until it becomes more tolerable. Foam rolling both legs shouldn’t take more than 10-15 minutes. I typically don’t recommend rolling too close to your joints. It’s easy to irritate tendons, joints, and bursa that are found near your knee. I also like to lay on my foam roll at my mid back and let my arms flop out to the side. This opens up my chest and stretches my thoracic spine. Cyclists tend to have poor posture, and this can help address that – plus it’s super relaxing.
  • Stretching: Flexibility of our lumbar spine, hamstrings, quads, calves, hip flexors, glutes, hip abductors/adductors is important to for efficiency of pedal stroke as well as reducing risk of injury. There are at least 4-5 ways to stretch each muscle group so I won’t go into specific versions of each stretch, but I will give you some general guidelines and include some of my favorite stretches at the end of this article. 1.) Make sure you’re warmed up before stretching. This can be as simple as a 5 minute spin on the bike, foam rolling the muscles you plan to stretch, or even taking a hot shower prior to stretching. Cold muscles don’t like to be stretched.   Another great time to stretch is after your bike ride. Muscles are loose and it acts as a nice warm-down. 2.) Make sure to start gentle and gradually increase the intensity of the stretch. Hold 45-60 seconds per stretch and repeat 3 times. 3.) Don’t bounce. A ballistic stretch can make muscles tighter as a protective mechanism and can cause injury to tendons. 4.) Don’t stretch aggressively before a race. If you have a tight area, doing some very light stretching can be beneficial, but intense stretching has been shown to decrease your peak power output.
  • Strengthening: If you want huge legs that produce tons of sprinting power, then lifting in the off-season is a good idea. If that’s not your goal, you still need to do some strengthening – your back and “core”. I particularly like core exercises that emphasize a neutral (straight) spine. Planks and bird-dogs are 2 of my favorite core exercises. Sit-ups and crunches tend to put too much pressure on our lumbar and cervical spine (plus they’re so 1987).

These are some general guidelines that I’ve come to believe over the past 20 years as an endurance athlete and 8 years as a physical therapist. If you have specific questions about an injury, seek guidance from a medical practitioner you trust. A good doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor should be able to guide your individual recovery.

Tyler’s favorite cyclist stretches: Please note that there are literally hundreds of different stretches that are appropriate for cyclists. These are by no means an exhaustive list but a couple of my personal favorites.

  1. Prone pressups – 10 second hold
  2. Supine hamstring stretch with strap/towel  
  3. Standing or prone quad stretch
  4. Foam roll or exercise ball pec stretch  
  5. Standing calf stretch against wall   
  6. Piriformis / Glute stretch 
  7. IT Band Stretch
  8. Hip adductor/hamstring stretch
-Tyler Arnett PT, DPT
Physical Therapist, Cat 2 Cyclist

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Founder of Bike Accident Attorneys PLC is a teammate and friend to Tyler.

Follow Ben on STRAVA.

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Supplements Proven to Boost Your Cycling Performance

There are no shortage of supplements out there on the market that allegedly make you faster, stronger, lighter, and so on. It can be overwhelming and often conflicting to sort through all of this. After trial and error of many of these supplements I have found that a few of them are much more preferable  than others. Some are a must in my opinion, while others are pretty good. Some are even proscribed by doctors based on your individual blood work and what you may be deficient in.

I open up some of my latest blood work results, Doctor’s notes and recommendations, and my personal tote bag of supplements in this webinar. While I readily acknowledge whole foods are BEST, we are often imperfect humans who could use a little help in our nutritional demands while killing ourselves as athletes. Some of the supplements will be very specific to my metabolic and physiological needs as tested and recommended by my team of doctors. Many more are natural supplements that I recommend for ANY athlete to take to boost performance, recover quicker, and feel better.

Supplements Point of Facts

HUGE point of fact #1, in my opinion supplements are exactly that: supplements. They should not be used to replace clean eating and proper exercise. As cyclists we often get so hammered out there and our bodies take a lot of abuse. Eating clean, raw, and organic whole foods is the best thing we can do to make sure we get all of the nutrients we need. But in my experience I still fall woefully short of what my body needs. Supplements help. Point of fact #2, make sure you are taking what you actually need and no more. Go see a physician or two. Get blood work done. Know for sure what if any your body is lacking. I see 3 doctors who all play a separate role. In fact, I fly up to Seattle Washington every 2-3 months to see one doc in particular who I feel is so amazing that it is worth my time to do so. Point of fact #3, I have experience with some supplements but obviously not all. I welcome comments and questions and suggestions for what you are taking. I only discuss those that I typically use right now at this stage of my cycling experience as a fat adapted endurance/ultra cyclist. There are others that didn’t make the recording on this webinar that I take regularly (i.e. Vitamin C).

Enjoy the webinar below, type comments and questions in and I’ll be happy to answer them the best I am able.

Webinar

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/AWVr3m0LEsk

PDFs & Handouts

dahlgren-notes-for-endurance-cyclist-ben-dodge_1217

7-17-blood-work Test

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_facebook][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_googleplus][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_tweetmeme][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]-Ben Dodge, Esq., Founder of Bike Accident Attorneys PLC

 

Follow me on STRAVA and Social Media.

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][mk_social_networks size=”xx-large” icon_color=”#dd3333″ icon_hover_color=”#eeee22″ align=”center” facebook=”https://www.facebook.com/BikeAccidentAttorneys/” twitter=”https://twitter.com/bikelawben?lang=en” google_plus=”https://plus.google.com/u/0/+BenDodgeBicycleLawyer” linkedin=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-dodge-bicycle-lawyer/” youtube=”https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjvYjLeSB07VRbCvCL9Zkw”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Everesting – An Epic Experience on a Bike

As an ultra endurance cyclist one of the notches in your belt of accomplishments is to ride your bicycle on a single ride to the tune of 29,029′ – the same height of Mt. Everest. I can’t wait to do it myself one day very soon as I prepare for Race Across France in August 2018, and then as part of my training for Race Across America in 2019. My friend and teammate Jason duPont just completed this incredible feat and did so even on an impromptu last minute sort of decision. What a stud. I personally am so proud of him. Here is his story in his own words…

“Impromptu Everesting – 173x Repeats on Shaughnessey Hill

148mi | 29,183ft climbing | Avg. HR 117bpm | HR 79%Z1 & 21%Z2 & 0% 3,4,5
It’s on STRAVA (It did happen) https://www.strava.com/activities/1458440554

*** Video links at the end of this post ***

That was the HARDEST thing I have ever done! And, I started businesses from scratch. I dealt with injuries, breaks, and sprains. I went blind temporarily. I raised 5 children. I watched my wife suffer with depression. I rode to Payson and back. I cycled 200 mile one day races. I participated in many epic rides. I have lost much. I failed much. I learned from each and every trial. Nothing compares to Everesting.

Cecily & Jason duPont

What is Everesting? The Rules https://everesting.cc/the-rules/
– CLIMB 8848m: Climb the height of Mt. Everest 8,848m / 29,029ft
– SINGLE CLIMB: On the one climb, on any hill, anywhere in the world
– ONE RIDE: In a single activity, with no time limit, and no sleep

Everesting Shaughnessey hill was excruciating! I have never pushed a boulder up a hill in my life, but after completing the ultimate climbing challenge with 173 repeats on my new, beautiful Cervélo S5 at 12% grade, I have a greater respect for the hell Sisyphus lived.

In total I cycled 148 miles and climbed 29,183 feet. Whew! I finally accomplished the goal I made 3 years ago. THREE YEARS…

A lot of training went into making this feat achievable! Through exercise and diet I was able to improve my power to weight ratios. I’m biologically engineered to sprint through life. I am guy with abundant fast-twitch muscle in love with a slow-twitch sport. I worked on my endurance with many 20+ hour weeks of cycling. I gave up many fun group rides for months to work on my zones and my weaknesses. I used various diet and exercise techniques to train my natural high carbohydrate burning body to use more fat during exercise which is necessary when burning over 9000 calories on a EPIC ride. I ate very clean. My diet changed to super low sugar and no processed foods.

I have attempted Everesting before and was not able to complete it. I wasn’t ready then. In fact, I wasn’t ready this time.

I knew it would be better to plan it out and wait until this fall after my Race Across France, but Thursday night, on the way home from work, my brain went into overdrive about where to ride Saturday. I wanted to do this thing for so long and got to the point of: “GRRRR, Let’s just do this”

On Friday morning I awoke with a sore throat and stuffy nose and was a little frustrated, but I still thought: “GRRRR, Let’s just do this”. I went to the restroom and stepped on the scale and saw my morning weight: 188.7 lbs. 😟 (I was testing carb-loading for Race Across France)

My beautiful wife, Cecily was on her way to her weekly girl’s ride when I told her, I was thinking of making an Everest attempt at either Hawes, SOMO, or Shaughnessey. I love her and love how supportive she was, especially knowing she would not get much sleep (if any) that night; sleep is very important to her. “GRRRR, Let’s just do this”.

I was grateful Cecily would be part of this adventure with me. Especially since she will be sharing in my France adventure.

By the time Cecily got back from her ladies ride, my impulsive side had taken over. I decided a dream deferred is like a raisin in the sun. It was time to go for it and get it done.

I decided to keep it on the “down-low” because I failed before. I couldn’t even climb small hills like Las Sendas three years ago, my heart rate would get dangerously high. An unfounded insecurity washed over me. I didn’t want to deal with any added pressure if I didn’t finish.

I packed up the car with items I thought I would need. Unfortunately, in my haste, I missed a few things. The good news is Cecily is a ROCKSTAR. When she came later, she brought out many items I missed, including zinc & echinacea to help with my cold.

I drove out, found a good parking spot, and started prepping. I knew that I would be out in the middle of the desert riding solo for awhile.

It was time. I started on my first lap. There was a strong force pushing me back on my first climb and I thought, “REALLY A HEADWIND?!?😁“

As I climbed the windy winding road, I had a lot of different thoughts. I thought things like, “This is gorgeous”, “I’m very blessed to be able to be out here”, and “Why did I choose a climb that had 12% grade? That’s not very efficient”.

The first 7,000 feet of climbing went pretty quick. I averaged around 2,000 feet an hour. However, that pace did not hold up.

At eight o’clock (ish), Cecily drove out with our five kids to see me and they struggled on foot to the top as I rode. We wanted them to get a taste of how steep it was: a glimpse of what it would be like to climb that hill over 100 times.

At the top we joked, laughed, and took family pictures.

Cecily drove the kids home and I was left alone to climb the hill solo in the cool darkness of the desert.

It started to get cold (especially on the descents). I packed on layers, remembering the warning an Everester Jesse gave me about keeping my knees warm. I know I added too many layers because I was sweating like a yeti in the summer on the climbs and then freezing like an Arizona boy in the snow on descents.

When I am cycling, I hate the cold.

My speed started to slow. I started telling myself finishing time didn’t matter. I came up with a ⚡Mantra⚡: “It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing.”

Ces came back out a little after midnight. We spent the entire night together talking, laughing, and panting like dogs on our bikes! It was freezing! She gave up her sleep to hang and support me. We rode together and were able to watch the vast colors ascend from behind the mountain as the desert sun rose. It was just us and our bikes.

Ohhh, the warmth of the sun! I was loving life as soon as I started stripping off clothes!!!

Mid-morning, the four horsemen of the apocalypse rode in from the east: Lynn, Jesse, Ralf, Doug.

^&%#$ they are strong cyclists!

They took turns distracting me and helping my mind NOT focus on the daunting journey still ahead of me. They spent hours and hours at my side riding at my slow pace up the climbs. I could not have done it without them and will always appreciate it.

The horsemen were exceptionally positive, upbeat, and careful to not let negative energy interfere. At that point positive energy was sorely needed.

By the way, they gave up their planned rides once they found out about my unplanned ride👍👊 SHOUT OUT & THANK YOU!!!

Ces had to leave but she would be back later. The four horsemen rode with me until she was able to return.

Ralf & Jesse are HELLS 500 members, an elite group of cyclists that have completed Everesting. They posed with me in an inspirational pic to help give me confidence. It was super nice to have two people there that have Everested before and the two people that supported them!

Hells 500

Lynn gave me the great idea of having Cecily bring back enticements with her that I could have when certain goals were met.👍 I texted Ces a list of motivational treats. We are still trying to figure out what I meant when I asked for a “chocolate banana prangle shake” 😁 I’m pretty sure it was the sleep deprivation. 😉

Ces came back and I was really starting to slow down. The four horsemen left and I started thinking / chanting: “It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing.”

Even though I was not about to quit; I started hitting various walls. Jesse had mentioned the dreaded 7 megajoule hurdle (think burning 7,000 calories) However, I started feeling it at 6 megajoules.

I started perseverating that I had picked a hill that was too steep. The optimal grade was around 6%, however, I chose a hill with an 8% average grade and the last quarter mile was 12%+. For some reason, I used standard gearing (most likely not the best decision). 🤔 I should have taken a compact (easier gearing) and not a standard.

The high grade started wearing me down. I was thinking of how much just being 5lbs to 10lbs lighter would have helped. I started making smaller and smaller goals just to finish.

Even before the end I knew my body was pushed past its limits. I was having a hard time getting my heart rate up. I was thinking, “You know when your heart rate only gets up to 115bpm on 11% grade your body is trashed … At this point it’s ALL MENTAL.” Then something from deep inside me started to chant: “It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing. It’s all about completing.”

This was my Race Across France MENTAL TRAINING!

Cecily was done riding. She decided to save any remaining energy to support me. A selfless act that helped motivate me to finish strong.

Garmin Data

Ray Harris called Cecily & asked how close I was to finishing. She let him know I was still about 2,000 feet away. He came out and took some siccc vids and pics. He was super encouraging and brought an amazing dinner. Although, I was only allowed to have it once I finished. The perfect enticement.

I started counting down the laps left. 4,3,2, and Ray yelled, “Enjoy your last lap”. I worked really hard to enjoy it. 172 laps complete 👍.

OOPS! After my last lap I looked at my Garmin and I was at 29,020 feet ascended. I was NINE FEET short of achieveing my Everesting goal. I descended and told them I needed one more. This time I stood for my REAL last lap and made sure to REALLY ENJOY IT!!!

👊 This ride includes a big THANK YOU to EVERYONE for all of the texts, calls, social media posts, etc. And, thank you CECILY. I could NOT have done this without you!!!👊

This ride was the HARDEST (by far) for me to date, but I am so glad I took on this challenge.

“Only those who attempt the absurd can achieve the impossible.”
Albert Einstein”

Final Ascent Vid
https://photos.app.goo.gl/kkeV8s5dZxhx2gbr2

Ray Harris Stay True Cyclery Az Video Commentary
https://photos.app.goo.gl/kkeV8s5dZxhx2gbr2

Ray Harris Stay True Cyclery Az Video Showing me climbing summit during sunset.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zt4YqKYizzRBsXX42

Photos / Vids
https://photos.app.goo.gl/Nt8BUBqoTdMRzavE2

 

 

Congrats Jason! You are a beast my friend.

-Ben Dodge

Follow me on STRAVA:

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

“Shhhhh No One Cares”

I saw an interesting t-shirt for sale today on FaceBook and couldn’t help how it precisely captures the mindset of so many people I come into contact with through my business as a bicycle accident lawyer.

As a committed cyclist and a dedicated bicycle crash lawyer I find it completely disturbing how little people seem to care about cyclists. Trust me I am not ranting here, just perplexed and disturbed. After months of litigating several different bicycle cases recently the over arching feeling in every deposition, every phone call with a defense attorney or insurance adjuster, and even today on a sunny afternoon ride is: Shhhhhh no one cares.

It’s as if everyone knows they should care about cyclists getting hurt, but in the end they all but admit they don’t care and even want to blame cyclists for the crime of riding a bike on the same road a car might travel. Of course that is no crime. But in the eyes of so many it is an all out assault to their right to drive if anyone on the road is slower than they are. I get it. I promise I really get it. I may or may not have lost my patience on more than one occasion while driving in areas of sunny Arizona where there may be an influx of retirees. But frustration is not even by a long shot any justification for hitting a cyclist nor is it a productive way to feel while driving.

Just today I was descending a well ridden road by cyclists in South Phoenix Arizona in South Mountain Park. I was nearly hit twice as drivers boldly crossed the double yellow line into my lane of traffic while out of frustration they aggressively and carelessly passed other cyclists in their lane. Each time the drivers holding up their hands and yelling in the car as if I was in their way! They illegally passed a cyclist and crossed a double yellow line almost hitting me just to get on their way a few seconds faster. And of course they blamed the cyclists for their inconvenience. What an over inflated sense of entitlement.

Driving with frustration like this leads to tragedy. On this very road not long ago an incredible cyclist and all round amazing human being was hit and killed on this very road by a young woman who also carelessly crossed the double yellow line. If a driver doesn’t hit and kill you with this sort of frustration and aggressive and careless driving, then you may end up permanently injured. If you’re lucky you may just end up having a close call like I did today.

What happens next? What happens after the dust settles and the legal case is over? What happens if it was merely a close call? I will tell you no matter the result, a close call, permanent injury or death, it seems that eventually the feeling in the room or the feeling of the drivers out there ever remains: Shhhhh no one cares. The drivers still drive carelessly, aggressively, and do everything they can to blame cyclists. Insurance adjusters, defense attorneys, and law makers still ignore the realities and dangers our current laws which do not protect cyclist enough. They still pretend that it isn’t that big of a deal since the collision was really just an accident and it was with a bicycle. I want to be crystal clear; that is a total lie that society wants us to believe. Lots of people care!

So listen, I don’t accept this mentality. I don’t accept our current legal state of affairs I don’t accept the blatant disregard for cyclists, for the lack of laws protecting them as vulnerable users of the roadways. I don’t accept that cyclists are inferior or at fault simply because they are exercising their right to use the roadway. I have a zero tolerance policy for drivers with entitlement and patience issues relating to cyclists. I am committed to changing this culture, the legal landscape as we know it, and serving and protecting cyclists. I am proud to be a bicycle accident attorney.

Next time you have a “close call” with one of these drivers or you encounter an attitude or paradigm of shhhhh no one cares then I challenge you to do something about it. Be someone who cares. Be someone who makes a difference.

For those of you who have been injured, or have lost a loved one in a bicycle wreck – please know that there are lots of us who care. This ridiculous mind set of shhhhh no one cares is simply NOT TRUE within our cycling community. I have witnessed so many random acts of kindness within the cycling community. Cyclists take care of each other, and look after one another. There is a bond of friendship formed and a strong community established with cycling. If you want to make some sincere and true friends who are incredible and who will inspire you to be better then get a bicycle and join a local bike club.

Loads of people care; and we are going to do something about it every single day!

-Ben Dodge

Follow me on STRAVA:

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

LOTOJA 2017

LOTOJA 2017

By: Ben Dodge, Esq., Ultra Cyclist

For our 3rd year in a row now our team has been lucky enough to race LOTOJA. LOTOJA is the longest single day USAC sanctioned road race in the united states. It is approximately 203 (give or take) miles crossing through parts of Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. Starting in LOgan Utah, you race TO JAckson Hole Wyoming (thus LO-TO-JA). It is simply beautiful and amazing. In order to race LOTOJA you actually have to submit an application and get drawn to race. I do not know the details of how the selection process is made, but I am grateful for our BAA Team’s opportunity for the past 3 years in a row to race LOTOJA! It has become a staple for us and we look forward to it every year.

Of course, for those of us BAA clowns in Arizona, we must commit to training all summer long in order to be race ready for this epic event. LOTOJA is always in September. Hammering out grueling 100-200+ mile training rides in the summer isn’t for everyone. But for us, we love it. In fact, most of us continually comment on how much we love LOTOJA in large part for the crazy fun training rides we force ourselves to do all summer long. Some of the highlights include training rides such as: Gilbert AZ to Tucson AZ and up to the Mt. Lemmon Summit (175 miles); Gilbert AZ to Globe AZ and back (140 miles), 5x-10x South Mountain (SOMO) repeats, Gilbert AZ to Payson AZ and back (170 miles), Gilbert AZ to Florence AZ to Casa Grande AZ to Gilbert AZ (120 miles), Gilbert to 9 Mile Hill and back (104 miles), Vision Relay, Iron Lung, EOP, Saguaro lake, and on and on. So many fun rides. Essentially every Saturday we are engaged in a new adventure around the state of Arizona with approximately 1oo miles or more on the ride. Often because of the heat and other Saturday family commitments we start these rides between 3am and 4am. It can be incredibly early but I am always amazed at how many teammates and friends show up to hammer out a Saturday Century ride with us. So fun. So inspiring.

This year was a great year as quite a few of us on the team were attempting to get the Triple Crank award. In order to earn this award you must complete 3 of the toughest races in Utah all in the same calendar year: Vision Relay, Iron Lung, and LOTOJA. We were so proud to get several of us on the podium for this fantastic award this year. Congrats to my amazing teammates who earned this award this year!

2017 BAA LOTOJA Team and SAG Crew

I think my favorite part of LOTOJA this year was seeing our team and SAG crew grow from the 8-10 of us our first year to over 30 of us this year. And standing alongside of us was over 20 friends and family members there to volunteer as SAG crew! The growth, energy, and positive vibes were really cool as we hung out the night before and had an awesome team dinner and team meeting. The sheer size of our group represented thousands of hours of training, volunteering, commitment, and support. We are one big happy BAA family. It was cool to meet some new faces, and make some new friends as our team has spread into several states now including Utah. The friends and family who supported us were simply amazing and inspiring with their continued acts of selflessness. That is for sure my favorite part of LOTOJA this year.

A close second to that was the race itself. I loved our race this year. Several of us had trained hard and we had developed a strategy and some goals that we knew we would have to work hard to achieve. We did just that. Many on the team set personal records shaving time off their previous best times. Many more finished for their first time. Others endured some grueling physical, medical, and certainly mental challenges. Everyone seemed to come away from this year a little better, a little stronger, a little wiser, a little more ready for whatever is next. It was cool to see that in the eyes of my teammates. This year our teammate Eric Woolsey snagged a 3rd place podium finish in the Mens Masters 55+ category, as well as his 10 year/2,000 mile LOTOJA award. He has raced LOTOJA 10 times. Epic! Congrats Eric!

Eric Woolsey: 3rd Place 55+

Eric Woolsey and 2,000 Mile LOTOJA /10 Year Award

My personal goal was to shave off about an hour of my best time and finish in nine and half hours. I openly commented on this goal and also expressed how happy I would be with any time less than 10 hours if I could be so lucky. Riding with my good friend and teammate Tom Liddell, we raced the whole race together and pushed ourselves as best as we could and found ourselves setting PRs all along the course. As the end drew near we found ourselves in a pack sprint for the finish. I was so pumped to see that our finish time was 9:28! We met/beat our goal! That is always a good feeling. Set it, plan for it, train for it, then work for it.

Triple Crank Medals. Left to Right: Tom Liddell, Jason DuPont, Ben Dodge, Karl Zeibig, Darin Edwards, Kelly Lund, and Mike Dawes.

 

To all my teammates out there, and everyone else who showed up to race or support LOTOJA, I say thank you for your efforts. You all inspire me. LOTOJA is an amazing race. A full race report may be coming later if I get to it. But I will share a few things billeted here:

  • Nutrition was spot on. I used 4 bottles of carborocket mixed with 6-8 scoops each. I carried 1 bottle of carborocket and 1 bottle of water on board. I ditched my empties and snagged new ones pre mixed and ready at the 3 designated Feed Zones for racers with crew (I believe they were 3, 5, and 6). I had 3-4 GUs for good measure. I ate nothing else. I drank 1/2 of a glass bottle of real coke with real sugar (from Mexico) at each of the 3 feed zones. These were already opened and poured into a disposable plastic water bottle (the kind you get in a case of 24 at a grocery store). This nutrition was ready to grab and go at each feed zone in a draw string bag labeled with my name on it. And the crew was expertly ready for me each time (THANK YOU!).
  • I had 2 flasks of pickle juice through out the entire race – mostly preventive. I carried this in my jersey picket.
  • I consumed 2 salt pills every couple of hours – I carried them on board in a little plastic vile.
  • I consumed 2 Excedrin every couple of hours -carried them on board in a little plastic vile.
  • My total stop time was 3.5 minutes and only because the draw string bags weren’t great for reaching into while riding. So we had to stop to open them and grab our water bottles out of them. Plus, Tom and I were hurting at the top of the KOM climb so we stopped for approximately 1.5 minutes there to get a water bottle and coke from the neutral sag there. 😉
  • I never stopped to pee. I sued a condom catheter. It was fantastic and saved loads of time and energy for me. Frankly, it was genius and I’m glad our teammate Darin Edwards thought this up for us to experiment with (Thanks Darin). For the record, I had practiced using this on other training rides. I will for sure be using it again on other longer rides or races. See this article here for more discussions on peeing while racing and the condom catheter.
  • Our average speed was something like 21.6 miles an hour (which includes our 3.5 minutes of stop time).
  • Top speed was only 55 miles per hour.
  • Burned about 5700 calories.
  • Average HR was 150 bpm.
  • Max HR was 187 bpm.
  • Average Power was 199 watts, Normalized Power was 202.
  • Max power was 1282 watts.
  • Average cadence was 82 rpm, with a max cadence of 166 rpm.
  • Elevation gain was 8,727′.
  • No mechanicals or flats during the race, although Tom rolled up to the start line and he noticed hist front tire was flat! So with 4 minutes before we were supposed to start he and I scrambled to change his tire. We did just in time and it held up the whole way.
  • Great weather and favorable winds for most of the entire day.

All in all it was awesome. I highly recommend you give LOTOJA a try. The training alone is awesome.

Be safe out there and keep the rubber side down!

-Ben Dodge

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Mastering “How to Pee” During a Bicycle Race

Mastering “How to Pee” During a Bicycle Race

By: Ben Dodge, Esq., Ultra Cyclist

Why the heck would you have to worry about peeing in a bicycle race? Why not just pull over and pee? Well, I admit that pulling over and peeing is by far the safest thing to do and the lawyer in me will always endorse safety! There are lots of reasons to not stop riding in a race. Mostly you are trying for the win, or hanging onto a group you can’t afford to drop off of (lose the draft), or just aiming for a personal best time and stopping to pee can throw all of that off.

If you are competing out there, you may struggle with the thought of what to do when you have to pee during a race. In fact, you might even worry about it so much that you don’t drink nearly as much as you should before and during your race. You are left under hydrated and risk not only under performance but some serious health issues as well. Any competitive cyclist will acknowledge that hydration is a huge component to a successful race, especially any longer bicycle race. Many cyclists start hydrating days before their race. The morning of a race I usually drink at least 1-2 bottles an hour or two before the race. I have a whole routine and hydration is always a top priority.

The problem of course is that you hope you pee before you race. Or that the race is short enough so if you have to pee during your race you simply hold it until you finish. This can be horribly uncomfortable, and even painful. Let me offer some helpful suggestions on How to Pee During a Bicycle Race. These pro tips are collected from personal experience, conversations with other competitive cyclists, teammates, and some awesome chats with pro cyclists. Here is a list of suggestions that are tried and true, and some even more experimental… lol

  1. Stop and pee. Yes, just pull over and pee. Its only a race, and any other suggestion could risk a crash. You could crash or cause a crash in the peleton if you’re not extremely careful and experienced in any of the next suggestions. The longer the race the more likely you won’t need to worry about losing time to stop and pee. When I raced the solo Race Across the West in 2016 I knew I had to bike 930 miles pretty much non stop all on my own. I knew I had plenty of time to stop and use the restroom when necessary. No need to pee yourself during such a long solo race. Ultra cycling is almost a different animal all together.
  2. Negotiated Pee Break. No kidding, sometimes in the peleton if you are feeling the painful urge to pee and you can’t hold it anymore you may very well not be the only one who feels that way. There are times when a fellow cyclist will start recruiting others within the peleton to all pull over and take a pee break. These negotiated pee breaks are hilarious. Everyone quickly pulling over and scrambling to pee and keep riding again. It is a sort of treaty where everyone agrees to stop and pee. Yet, no one really waits for the last guy. You pee and you start pedaling again, end of story. Hopefully you’re not the last guy peeing who is suddenly caught having to bridge a gap back up to the rest of the group who peed faster than you did. I have participated in a negotiated pee break in the LOTOJA race. It is a 200+ mile road race and without fail every year after about 1.5 hours or so everyone ends up negotiating a pee break on the side of the road in the middle of no where. I have never been so grateful in a race!
  3. Just pee in your bibs. Yep, its as gross as it sounds. But many cyclists who race have all tried it. You just pee and then try and squirt a bit of water on yourself out of your water bottle. This suggestion is one of the ones pro cyclists are familiar with. One complaint I hear from them is that you get “pee pee shoes.” The pee can just run down your leg and into your cycling shoes. They smell for ever after that and it seems virtually impossible to get the smell all the way out. I admit I have tried this as well. It sucks. It smells. And you could even get irritated skin everywhere if you don’t wash your bibs out well immediately after you pee. It is the easiest way to stay on your bike and pee. It is fairly safe and you don’t really have to stop pedaling to do it. I will warn you, it takes practice to get to the point where you can pee and pedal at the same time. If I recall correctly I came home and threw away my “pee pee shoes” swearing I would never try that again.
  4. Stand and Deliver. No kidding, one of the most impressive things I have seen in a race is a guy slip off to the right hand side of the peleton and coast along the shoulder standing up; with one hand on the handlebar and one hand on his… he whipped it out and peed while coasting along side the peleton. We rode by him in awe. A bit disgusted for sure, but more impressed. He lost a few positions in the peleton but nothing he couldn’t make up real quickly. He never dropped off the back or had to bridge any gaps. It was flawless. Genius. But of course he put himself and all of us at risk. What if there had been debris in the shoulder? Or what if he simply swerved into the peleton? There a number of reasons why this is an unsafe maneuver. He clearly had practiced it as he pulled it off in a seamless and smooth manner. That is what was so impressive. I know he must have practiced because I set out to try it on a training ride once with my dad. One summer afternoon while visiting my dad in Utah I pedaled ahead on a bike path in the middle of no where and determined to try it. There was some surprising stage fright. Some awkwardness in balance and stability while peeing. It was anything but smooth. I was however able to pee. I got a little on me but not bad. It had worked. But not well enough for me to do it in a race. I knew I needed a better option…
  5. The Condom Catheter. Wow, just writing it makes me a bit queasy. No joke, this is an incredibly creative option. One of my teammates who had to drop from a fast group of cyclists only because he had to pee during a competitive attempt at LOTOJA was so frustrated he thought to himself: “There has to be a better way.” It was his creative thinking that led to who knows how many weird google searches which in turn led to this idea of condom catheters. It is exactly what its sounds like. It is a condom you put on with a catheter tube you connect to it. The tube in a medical setting will presumably connect to a pee bag of sorts attached to your bedside. Adapted to competitive cycling by our very own teammate (D.E. – initials only to sort of keep his identity somewhat private, lol) the tube is cut to extend out the bottom of the bibs by 3-5 inches when in use. When not in use the tube simply tucks around your thigh/hamstring and into the bottom of your bibs. The tubing used can be purchased at Home Depot or any varoety of “medical tubing” on Amazon, etc. It is a bit of a hacked looking device we have made. The actual condom catheters can also be purchased on Amazon. Many of us have all tried different versions (makes and models) of condom catheters. I will say this: size definitely matters. Buying the right size is ultra important to even kind of being successful with this idea. Also, some have some sticky glue like substance that we recommend you avoid as it feels like your ripping a layer of skin of just to remove it. I will include pictures of the condom catheter I prefer and the tubing I used. I can say that I have actually tried it on several recent rides. In preparation for this year’s LOTOJA race a few of us BAA cyclists have been highly interested in trying out the whole condom catheter thing. I must say the conversations during the rides have been hilarious on an epic scale. Just the other night I was talking to a teammate and friend of mine on the phone in the kitchen asking him how he was able to get his condom catheter on (a challenge for sure) and my wife was listening in the background. It was too funny. I have pictures (all clean) of the actual catheter, and the tubing I use. I have some good and bad experiences with it so far. It seems the longer the ride the more likely it is to fall off right in the middle of a pee. This can of course be embarrassing and a bit gross. lol. All worth the risk for now as we try to discover new ways to pee during a race without stopping. I could see a follow up article on the DO’s and DON’Ts of condom catheters just so people who want to try it can learn from our mistakes. LOTOJA is in 1.5 weeks from today and I plan to try it out for that race (200+ miles). I’ll be happy to report how well or badly it went.

Again, if you have to ask why this is even important then you may not have ever been in a serious race where you couldn’t afford to stop, OR you already have a different solution that works. If you do have any solutions or suggestions that we haven’t thought of or tried yet please leave a comment to this blog and I’m sure myself along with some of my BAA teammates will be happy to run some tests/experiments with your ideas. We are always looking for the newest innovative ideas. We love to try new things, especially if they work well.

Have an incredible time riding your bike. Be safe, and keep the rubber side down!

-Ben Dodge, Esq.

More pictures:

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Today I Was Lucky…

In my career I have seen a lot of tragedies surrounding the sport and recreation of riding a bicycle. I have also experienced what seems to be at times the overwhelming nature of competitively training. The never ending long rides and the difficult day in and day out commitment to compete in significant bike races and events. Sometimes riding a bicycle can seem like it isn’t fun anymore or isn’t worth it. Today I was lucky enough to experience the simple pleasure of riding a bicycle all over again. I love bicycles. I love cyclists. I love to ride. I am a cyclist. No matter how crazy life can be sometimes, I am grateful and happy for the opportunities I have to ride my bike.

In Arizona it gets hot in the summer, like really hot. In fact, today when I left work I got in my truck which was in a covered parking spot and the temperature showed 118 degrees for the outside temperature. I know that those can vary sometimes in accuracy… but no matter how you look at it, it was hot. In fact, for the past two days here in Arizona it has been too hot for airplanes to take off from Sky Harbor and flights have simply been canceled! That is hot.

Many of us locals ride our bikes all year around here regardless of the heat. We actually get used to it. I honestly prefer it. I would much rather ride in the heat than in the cold. We are used to loading up with extra water bottles and even making a few stops at local gas stations to refill our water bottles when they run dry.

Today was one of those days where I dreaded getting up out of bed at 4:00am to ride my bicycle. Getting up at 4:00am is pretty normal for me and those I often ride with. In fact, sometimes we even start our longer rides at 3:00am. It is what you do to get your training in before work. Of course it helps with avoiding the heat a bit also. But today I was tired. I have been riding/training a lot and racing several weekends in a row. I was mentally and emotionally a bit tired, and I was definitely running low in overall energy. So when my 4:00am alarm went off today I wanted to just ignore it. But training doesn’t get done by itself, so up I was and out the door to meet up for our 4:30am group ride meetup.

As is usually the case, once I am out there and spinning around a bit I begin to feel better, more awake, and excited to challenge myself. Today was no exception. After a about 20-30 minutes we witnessed an amazing sunrise as we rode East. It was beautiful and I thought to myself I need to stop and take a quick picture. So I did. Grateful for the beauty and inspiration in the sunrises we experience as early morning cyclists. If the ride had ended then and there I would have gone home a grateful and re energized person. Fortunately there was more to experience that I didn’t anticipate…

After some good efforts, sore legs, and lots of sweat later our little band of friends arrived at Saguaro Lake. It is a beautiful little lake here about 25 miles from our homes. The lake had this beautiful calm to it. It was so peaceful and undisturbed. It was sooooo inviting. Even at 6:00am here in Arizona right now it is wicked hot; it feels like a stinking oven all the time. Longingly looking at the lake one of my friends suggested we park our bicycles and jump in. I laughed. He was serious. Then in a moment everyone started taking off their bike shoes, helmets, etc., walked to the end of the pier and jumped in!

It was one of the best decisions I have ever made on a ride. Jump in. Float around in a peaceful lake all by ourselves. I remember thinking to myself, this is one of the simple pleasures of riding a bicycle. I felt so fortunate to be able to ride a bicycle all the way to the lake, and then seize an impromptu opportunity to take full advantage of the atmosphere only a lake can provide that early in the morning. The water was so refreshing. We all laughed and swam around a bit. After a few minutes we all realized we weren’t in good enough swimming shape to keep this up for too long. We swam back to the pier, got dressed and rode home.

I’m not sure I have ever enjoyed a ride more than this one. It helped me remember that riding a bicycle is a simple pleasure that I want to take full advantage of. I want to continue to seize these such moments shared with good friends as often as they present themselves. I know many fallen cyclists who have been injured or even killed. I know how hard it is to train day in and day out as competitive cyclists do. I know how difficult it is to get up early, or to ride in terrible weather conditions. But today none of that mattered. For a moment it was just a simple pleasure to ride my bicycle that brought a refreshing energy and a brighter perspective on how special it can be to be a cyclist.

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Return to Top